Benzene Reduction Process Simulation and Optimization in Catalytic Cracking Gasoline Distillation

For countries where catalytic cracking gasoline is the primary source, the proposed technology consists in separating a benzene-rich fraction from catalytic cracking gasoline in order to be processed further together with reforming gasoline in a unit dedicated to aromatics extraction. In this way, two benefits are obtained: a benzene-rich fraction as raw material for extraction and the leftover fraction that satisfies the benzene content standards as a qualified product. It is established to use the divided wall distillation model, single-column distillation model, and double-column distillation model. Sensitivity analysis and SQP optimization are used to identify the ideal operating conditions and gasoline yield. Economic research shows that the divided wall and single-column distillation models have more potential for growth. It offers theoretical direction for businesses to design and optimize the pertinent process.