Exergy‐Based Simulation and Optimization of Multiagent MSW Gasification for Sustainable Energy Recovery Using Aspen Plus

Thermochemical gasification is one of the most efficient methods for producing solid waste synthesis gas. Therefore, to predict and analyze the process of gasification of municipal solid waste (MSW) in a downdraft fixed‐bed gasification reactor with a thermal capacity of 2.1 kW, a comprehensive numerical modeling approach based on Gibbs free energy minimization was employed utilizing Aspen Plus simulation software. The developed computational framework facilitated the rigorous prediction and in‐depth analysis of critical process performance indicators, including syngas composition, lower‐heating value (LHV), and residual flux under a broad spectrum of gasification operational parameters. Specifically, the model enabled systematic investigation of the effects of varying gasification temperatures, as well as different types and ratios of gasifying factors, thereby providing nuanced insights into the optimization of gasification processes within diverse operational regimes. The validation outcomes demonstrate a strong correlation between experimental observations and the model's simulated outputs. The optimal gasification conditions were identified at an approximate temperature of 1300°C, with a preferred gasifying agent blend comprising water vapor and carbon dioxide alongside air at a combined ratio near 1.3. The best input residual flux for the production of synthetic gas was considered to be 18.1 kg/s. A gasifying agent composed of water vapor, carbon dioxide, and air is considered the most optimal for syngas production from MSW in Tehran, due to its ability to yield the highest LHV and the highest concentrations of hydrogen 52.46 mol% and carbon monoxide 47.9 mol%.