Sulfuric Acid from Spent Acid (Double-Contact Process)

Report Abstract

This report presents the economics of spent sulfuric acid regeneration via double-contact double absorption process. The spent acid is first decomposed in a furnace to sulfur dioxide, which is oxidized to sulfur trioxide. Finally, it is fed to the absorption process for producing sulfuric acid. The economic analysis performed is based on a plant constructed in the United States.

The report provides a comprehensive study of Sulfuric Acid production and related Sulfuric Acid production cost, covering three key aspects: a complete description of the Sulfuric Acid production process examined; an in-depth analysis of the related Sulfuric Acid plant capital cost (Capex); and an evaluation of the respective Sulfuric Acid plant operating costs (Opex).

The Sulfuric Acid production process description includes a block flow diagram (BFD), an overview of the industrial site installations, detailing both the process unit and the necessary infrastructure, process consumption figures and comprehensive process flow diagrams (PFD). The Sulfuric Acid plant capital cost analysis breaks down the Capex by plant cost (i.e., ISBL, OSBL and Contingency); owner's cost; working capital; and costs incurred during industrial plant commissioning and start-up. The Sulfuric Acid plant operating costs analysis covers operating expenses, including variable costs like raw materials and utilities, and fixed costs such as maintenance, labor, and depreciation.