Is it possible to use the ELECNRTL method for certain processes within the global UNIFAC property approach?
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Aspen Plus V14 was used to simulate the sulfolane extraction process for aromatics. In the solvent regeneration unit, there are a thermal regeneration tower and a solid separator. In the thermal regeneration tower, it is assumed that the sulfates present in the recovered lean solvent need to be decomposed into acidic gases through high-temperature steam stripping in order to be removed; these sulfates are generated as a result of the decomposition of some of the solvent in the recovery stage, and they are tentatively identified as ammonium sulfate and ammonium bisulfate； The solid separator is configured with the pseudo-component GUTI to participate in the separation. The UNIFAC property method is used globally. Since the sulfate specified is not suitable for the UNIFAC method, an attempt was made to use the ELECNRTL property method for simulation in the thermal regeneration tower; however, no parameter table was generated after searching for the parameters, there was no data available, and an error occurred during execution. As shown in the figure, what is going on? Is it possible to use some of the ELECNRTL parameters within the UNIFAC framework?
In Aspen Plus, although a single property method (such as UNIFAC) is set globally, you can still choose to use different property methods for specific unit operations. For example, in your case, since the treatment involves electrolytes, it is possible to use the ELECNRTL method separately in the operation of the thermal regeneration tower. The specific steps are as follows: 1. Open the Aspen Plus model. 2. Identify the unit operations of the thermal regeneration tower. 3. In the property editor of that unit operation, look for the “Physical Property Method” option. 4. Select the ELECNRTL method from the drop-down menu. If an error occurs during operation, check the following points: - Ensure that all necessary electrolyte data and interaction parameters have been correctly set for the ELECNRTL method. - Check for any undefined or incorrect component data. - Verify that the ELECNRTL method supports all components in the model. If the error persists, you can try updating or repositioning the data table; it might be caused by a data access issue. You can also consult Aspen Plus’s help files to learn about the specific requirements and limitations of the ELECNRTL method. .