Department of Chemical Engineering

Permanent URI for this communityhttps://repository.cuilahore.edu.pk/handle/123456789/13

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 36

Production Of 100 Tons Day Dimethyl Ether
(Publisher COMSATS University Islambad Lahore Campus, 2014) : Toseef Iqbal; SP08-BEC -171; Zeeshan Rashid, Assistant Profesor [Supervisor]; LHR TP 5921
Future energy demand especially in the Pacific & Asian regions is to be huge. Dimethyl ether will be a solution of secure energy supply and environmental conservation. Keeping these points in mind we urged to work & we are feeling great to present our work on “Production of Dimethyl Ether (DME) by catalytic Dehydration of Methanol” This report is divided in different sections. First of all the introduction of DME is given, which highlights its importance. Different manufacturing processes for DME are also described in chapter 2. Detailed description of “Production of DME by catalytic dehydration of methanol” is also presented in chapter 2. Afterwards material and energy balance is presented. In preceding chapters introduction to different equipments of plant along with their designing procedure and specification sheets are presented. Hazop study, Instrumentation & Control, Environmental Impacts and Cost Estimation for this plant are also included in this report.
Indoor Navigation System For A Shopping Mall Using
(2019) , FA15-BCE-058 , FA15-BCE-013; Kainat Sabir , Khadija Khan; Dr. Naseem Shehzad, Assistant Profesor; LHR TP 5870
GPS (Global Positioning System), is the most widely used navigation technique, but it does not work inside the buildings or indoors because GPS signals are weak after passing through massive concrete structures. The prime objective of this project is to provide an indoor navigation system that can work inside a large building like malls, airports, stations, university campuses, and hospitals, etc. where people feel it difficult to find a specific location. This system establishes the position of the user in such a building and then guides the user to his/her desired indoor destination. The indoor navigation system is based on three distinct components, a platform for positioning system, signal transmitters or location devices, and an application on mobile that retrieves and predicts signals. After comparing different technologies, we came across the fact that BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) is more appropriate for an indoor navigation system. The final user of the system is provided with the Indoor Navigation System in the form of an Android application. The application works in with the collaboration of installed hardware units inside the building. The system is evaluated in a real-time environment, and the results show that we have achieved an efficiency of up to 60%.
DIP Based Beverage Inspection On Conveyor Under
(Publisher COMSATS University Islambad Lahore Campus, 2019) Ahmad Hameed , Rimsha Tariq , Nayab Saeed, Ayesha,; FA15-BCE-002 , FA15-BCE-004 , FA15-BCE-026 , FA15-BCE-030; Dr. Muhammad Yaqoob, Assistant Profesor [Supervisor]; LHR Tp 5875
Automated vision inspection is creating a revolution as it becomes a vital part of the quality monitoring process. It offers more accuracy and efficiency. Major Automatic visual inspection responsibilities include, spotting the occurrence or deficiency of objects in the image and computing the dimensions of objects to see if they converge conditions. Measurements are built on characteristic attributes of the object represented in the image. Automatic image processing systems usually classify the type of data contained in the image as edges, surfaces, and textures, or patterns. This project aims at the development of a system for the removal of faulty product in beverage, water bottles industries. It can be self-operational in controlling, starting with bottle detection as a faulty product then pushing the products away from the conveyor to some other basket. Our project mainly deals to detect and remove the faulty products form the product line (conveyor). This work is currently done manually in product lines in industries. This project is divided into two major portions i.e. detecting bottles on a conveyor using IR sensor and synchronize it with the movement of conveyor using the electrical circuit part that includes Raspberry Pi microcontrollers and once the IR sensor detects bottle on conveyor it gives the signal to Raspberry Pi and Real time image is captured. Another part is the camera for image capturing and of course Raspberry Pi for doing image processing with OpenCV libraries. Raspberry Pi is being used for image processing and sending commands to the mechanical parts to work accordingly. The camera takes the real-time image of bottles and send it to Raspberry Pi where it is matched with predefined data for template matching. This project covers three major inspections task that are, bottle cap detection (either it is properly locked or not), logo detection (either bottle has a logo or not) and 3rd is level checking of liquid inside the bottle (either it is filled to a specific level or not).
Efficient Sensor MAT For Energy Harvesting And
(COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus Library Information Services, CUI Lahore, 2020) … By: Shahbaz Ali , Mudabbar Hussain , Umer Shoukat; FA15-BCE-031 , FA15-BCE-006 , FA15-BCE-059; Dr. Abbas Javaid, Assistant Profesor; LHR TP 5871
In past few years, increase in production of less power consuming electronic devices made our lives more comfortable. Although, energy consumed by these moveable electronic devices will increase, the idea of energy harvesting in human surroundings arise a new interest among us. In our project we proposed a sensor mat which can harvest ambient energy source into usable electrical energy. As it will be successful approach to make power through a sensor mat. This objective can be accomplished by placing piezoelectric materials inside the mat and it placed at entrance where it allows maximum people to go through it. Whenever, the person steps on the mat it will generate a signal in the form of potential difference. This amount of potential difference will be dependent on the force exerted by human footstep. After receiving the threshold signal a program will run which will count the person and his direction. This would allow us to generate appropriate amount of electricity as well as counting the number of people and their direction.
Security And Surveillance Robot For True/False
(comsats university islamabad lahore campus, 2020) Atta Ul Kabria , Gul Hassan,; FA15-BCE-034 , FA15-BCE-055; Mr. Modassir Ishfaq; LHR TP 5868
Security is a common concern around the world. Every year a lot of property is lost or damaged due to burglaries. Various tech companies are introducing new smart security and surveillance systems with different capabilities. This security and surveillance system is capable of sensing the break in and also alerting the owner and authorities about it. Furthermore, it also helps the security authorities in apprehending the suspected burglar. The security system include features like localization and environment sensing. The robot maps the environment upon activating and store the data in a remote storage. The system monitors the premises using sensors placed at different points of the premises including all the entrances i.e. doors and windows. If the system senses some movement, the bot leaves its dock and inspects the particular area, upon detecting human presence, it alerts the owner and the local security authorities. The bot is also capable of taking pictures of the scene and transmitting live video feed to the owner’s device. The pictures and the video are stored in a remote storage. The security and surveillance robot can also be overridden enabling it to be controlled by the user using one’s device. Moreover, the bot is also able to turn on an electric appliance i.e. light or TV, to mislead the intruder
Design & Optimization of BIOMASS GASSIFIER for production of syngas using Computational fluid dynamics
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2020) Noor UL Islam; SP18-RCH-004; Dr. Shehzad Khuram; LHR TP 5954
The design of gasification of biomass and coal process is to be enhanced by simulating process parameters and methods with computer software i.e Ansys 14.5 The Properties and characteristics of fluid flow participates for optimization of process. Hence computational fluid dynamics is being used from “Ansys 14.5” Software. Gasification is one of a naturally pleasant solution and is relatively new amongst all the methods available for the manufacture of energy by consuming biomass method. By restricted oxidation, gasification is essential thermo-chemical conversion at higher temperature of carbon-based materials. Any small value carbonaceous compounds similarly biomass, fuel coke, and metropolitan waste and processing plant residues can be recycled for production of great efficiency energy with gasification. As CO2 in air absorbed carbon content of biomass due to this the left CO2 manufacture is zero, so Biomass gasification is principally CO2 neutral. The by-product is identified as syngas (combination of H2, CH4 and CO) taking an elevated fraction of H2 which makes syngas main to all fuels. Above stated causes make gasification of biomass an unexpected substitute for the creation of power and energy. Presently clean and capable source of energy is reflected as the gasification of biomass. Over Practical testing it is time intense and challenging for a FB gasifier by differing the operating settings to obtain optimum conditions. CFD modelling has manifest to be an effective option in current days because from time to time Practical experiments may not be economical and reasonable. Due to nonstop improvement of computational potential, it is capable to carry out such optimization to manage optimum operating settings and design in advance experimental optimization are carried out.
100 bbl/Day Biodiesel Production From Waste Cooking Oil Using Cow Bones As Catalyst
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2023) HUSHAM AMER CHAUDRY (FA19-CHE-015); SAROSH ALI KHOKHAR (FA19-CHE-017); HASHIM ABBASI (FA19-CHE-035); SYED SIKANDAR ALI (FA19-CHE-061); ABDULLAH BIN FARHAN (FA19-CHE-101); Dr. Shahzad Khuram
This plant design report contains the process and design feasibility for producing biodiesel at a rate of 100 bbl/day from waste cooking oil using cow bones as catalysts. The plant can fulfill the 10% of the need for diesel in demand in the city. Our biodiesel is the product of the transesterification process of waste cooking oil in the presence of Methanol and calcined cow bones as catalysts. The basis of the process is the 100 bbl/day biodiesel production. This thesis consists of a chapter on introduction, process selection and description, material balance, energy balance, equipment selection and design, instrumentation, process control, HAZOP analysis, cost estimation, and site selection. A brief process flow sheet can be seen at the beginning of the report. The general form of transesterification reaction is: (Waste Cooking Oil + Methanol) (Glycerin + Biodiesel) Reactor feed contains waste cooking oil, Methanol, and calcined cow bones at 900, ℃ are used as a catalyst to catalyze the reaction for transesterification. The overall conversion of the process is 97%. The reaction is endothermic. A heating water jacket is installed in the reactor to maintain the temperature at 65 ℃, our reaction temperature.
A Plant Design Project on the Production of 10,000 Tonnes per Year of Methyl Ethyl Ketone via Catalytic Dehydrogenation of 2-Butanol
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2023) Ashar Ali Khan (FA19-CHE-096); Faiza Shuja (FA19-CHE-023); Rana Bilal Akhtar (FA19-CHE-056); Adeel Abbas (FA19-CHE-076); Arham Naveed (FA19-CHE-060); LHR TP 8425; Dr. Abdul Razzaq
This project aims to address the growing demand for Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) in Pakistan and foster growth in the organic solvent sector. To achieve this, various methods of producing MEK have been carefully analyzed and evaluated for cost effectiveness, and catalytic dehydrogenation of 2-butanol has been determined to be the most efficient and economical approach. This method involves a straightforward process of eliminating hydrogen from 2-butanol using a catalyst at the appropriate temperature and pressure to produce high-purity MEK. To design the MEK production plant, several critical steps have been undertaken, including conducting mass and energy balances, designing the primary equipment, developing process instrumentation and control, and estimating the process's cost. The significance of this initiative is its potential to drive growth in the organic solvent sector in Pakistan, given that this method has been successfully industrialized in other countries.
Flue-Gas Treatment From The Combustion of 1.9 million Tonnes/year Coal Containing High Sulphur, Nitrogen and Carbon Contents
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2023) M. Uzair Imran (FA19-CHE-033); Mustafa Adil Asad (FA19-CHE-067); Daud Rafique (FA19-CHE-087); Jazim Hussain Khan (FA19-CHE-091); Haroon Rasheed (FA19-CHE-095); LHR TP 8420; Dr. Wajeeh-Ur-Rehman
Flue gases produced by combustion of coal containing high Sulphur and nitrogen is processed and cleaned for its safe exit to the environment to reduce the adverse effects of SOx, NOx, and CO2. To do so, coal analysis of Thar (Pakistan) is done because of its high Sulphur and nitrogen content. Flue gases that leave the Combustion chamber are passed through the Selective Catalytic Reduction Reactor (SCR) where NOx reduction occurs with ammonia water and outlet of SCR goes through the heat exchangers to drop the temperature. Then it is Desulfurized in scrubber which uses lime slurry (CaCO3) for the removal of SOx. It also gives gypsum as a by-product which is by cement industry. CO2 is absorbed with Mono Ethanol Amine (MEA) in the absorber. Clean gas is set free to the environment from the top. By absorbing CO2 MEA becomes rich MEA, to make process economical rich MEA is regenerated which is done by using a stripper column. From which MEA is regenerated by boiling. CO2 from top of the column is delivered to storage and lean MEA is cooled down using a heat exchanger and cooler then sent back to the absorber.
A Chemical Engineering Plant Design Project on the Production of 24000 tons per year of Aviation Fuel via Fischer-Tropsch Process using Biomass Gasification
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2023) Mehroz (FA19-CHE-003); Sahar Khan (FA19-CHE-009); Shafaq Imtiaz (FA19-CHE-019); Hafiz Muhammad Bilal (FA19-CHE-071); Maryam Fatima (FA19-CHE-083); LHR TP 8423; Dr. Zakir Khan
The production of traditional jet fuel from fossil fuels has substantial environmental impacts and relies on finite resources. As a result, the search for renewable and economically viable alternatives has gained attention. Biomass-derived jet fuel has emerged as a promising solution, offering a renewable resource that can help address environmental concerns and meet the increasing demand for aviation fuel. This project focuses on producing 24,000 tons per year of aviation fuel in Pakistan using the Fischer-Tropsch process coupled with biomass gasification, with corn stover selected as the biomass feedstock. The project emphasizes the importance of expanding bio-jet fuel production to meet the growing demand and significantly reduce carbon footprints. It highlights the urgent need to invest in biomass conversion technologies and scale production to attain environmental goals. The successful implementation of large-scale bio-jet fuel production systems will reduce dependence on fossil fuels and contribute to the sustainable development of the aviation industry. Material and energy balance calculations are performed to assess the plant's feed requirements and energy consumption, providing crucial information for the process. Furthermore, design calculations for equipment are conducted to estimate the capital cost of the plant, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the project's financial implications. This project examines the potential of biomass-converted jet fuel as a sustainable and economically advantageous alternative to traditional jet fuel.
A Plant Design Project on the Production of 66000 Tons/year Formaldehyde from 9661.83 kg/hr of Processing Methanol Using Silver as a Catalyst
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2023) Hammad Ijaz (FA19-CHE-063); Muhammad Abdullah (FA19-CHE-059); Hammad Ali (FA19-CHE-093); Rana Ahsan Ali (FA19-CHE-097); Furqan Ahmed (FA19-CHE-104); LHR TP 8419; Dr. Noaman Ul Haq
Formaldehyde can be manufactured through various processes, but most of it is manufactured using a oxidation of methanol using a silver process. In this process, reactants i.e., methanol is fed to the vaporizer where it exchanges heat with water, Heated methanol is then fed to the reactor where it reacts with Oxygen (Air) with steam injected to avoid deactivation of silver catalyst to form major product (Formaldehyde) along with some tail gases. Product is then fed to the absorption tower where water is used as a carrier solvent for methanol and tail gases are removed from the top of the absorption column. Formaldehyde along with water methanol mixture is fed to distillation column for the removal of major product on the basis boiling point difference. Recycled methanol is taken from the top of the column and heated product formaldehyde (formalin) is taken from the bottom of the column. This product is then sent to the final equipment of the process which is heat exchanger to cool down the main product. The conversion achieved is 92% of the overall product.
Gas Sweetening Unit to Sweet 200 MMSCFD of Natural Gas
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2023) Muhammad Azeem (FA19-CHE-031); Ahsan Sadiq (FA19-CHE-041); Ali Hamza (FA19-CHE-043); Ahsan Shawal (FA19-CHE-049); M Azeem Saleem (FA19-CHE-099); LHR TP 8421; Eng. Javaid Ahmad
In oil and gas industry gas sweetening process is inevitable when raw natural gas contains acid gasses like H2S and CO2 removal of these acid gases is essential since their presence poses severe corrosion problem to the downstream process lines and equipment. In our project raw natural gas first goes in separator where the water content removed further gone in absorber where amine and that gas react sweet gas goes upward and collected from the top of absorber while the rich amine further process to recover all the amine to reduce operation cost. First of all, we design process flow diagram and select suitable equipment for this process. As we need to calculate different parameter apply material and energy balance on all equipment our target is 200 MMSCFD so we need to fix our mass of feed. After that design all equipment on the basis of our material and energy requirements. In every process we need to apply control loop to run process smoothly, apply control loop on every single equipment. One most important thing is cost of the plant, what is capital cost and what is operation cost? Apply cost estimation.
Production of 1500 kmol/day of Hydrogen from Biogas
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2023) Areeb Ahmad (FA19-CHE-001); Talha Hafeez (FA19-CHE-005); Usman Zahid (FA19-CHE-027); Furqan Qaiser (FA19-CHE-057); Abdul Moiz (FA19-CHE-073); LHR TP 8418; Dr. Farrukh Jamil
As the energy demands of this rapidly progressing world are increasing day by day and the fossil fuel are depleting, new sources of energy are much needed, and hydrogen fuel can serve this purpose. Hydrogen can provide clean and eco-friendly energy and it can be generated by using renewable resources like biogas which is an alternate source of energy in a comparison with the natural gas. As compared to natural gas, the biogas is very cheap. We have worked out at a plant design for the synthesis of 1500 kmol/day of Hydrogen via 1000.56 kmol/day using a steam reforming method. We have applied material and energy balance on Adsorber, Steam reformer, a HTWGS reactor, CO2 Absorber, HX, LTWGS reactor, Condenser and Separator.
A Plant Design Report on the Production of 300 MTPD of Methanol from Syngas
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2023) Muhammad Asif (FA19-CHE-025); M. Abdullah Asif (FA19-CHE-085); Taimour Sultan (FA19-CHE-103); Ali Hamza (FA19-CHE-107); Dr. Awais Bukhari; LHR TP 8422
This Plant Design Report focuses on the production of 300 MTPD of Methanol from Syngas. The report outlines the comprehensive design of a plant that efficiently converts syngas into methanol, highlighting the technical aspects, optimization strategies, and environmental considerations involved. The abstract provides an overview of the report, summarizing the key objectives, methodologies, and outcomes. It emphasizes the collaborative efforts of researchers, engineers, technicians, and environmentalists in designing a sustainable and efficient methanol production process. The abstract acknowledges the support and guidance of management and stakeholders, as well as the crucial role played by teachers in shaping the educational journey of the students involved in the project. Overall, the abstract provides a concise summary of the Plant Design Report, capturing the essence of the project and recognizing the contributions of all stakeholders involved.
Production of 500 metric tons/day of Nitric Acid from Ammonia by Ostwald Process
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2023) Hashir Arshad, FA19-CHE-012; Abdul Manan Amjad, FA19-CHE-040; Uzair Ahmad, FA19-CHE-068; Awais Afzal Sial, FA19-CHE-088; Zeeshan Sarwar, FA19-CHE-102; LHR TP 8426; Dr. Asim Laeeq Khan
This final year project report presents a comprehensive study on the production of 500 metric tons per day of nitric acid through the implementation of Ostwald's process using ammonia as the primary feedstock. The report provides a detailed analysis of the process flow, reaction kinetics, equipment design, and optimization techniques employed to achieve the desired production capacity. Additionally, the project explores the environmental impact of the nitric acid production process and proposes innovative strategies for minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. The findings of this report contribute to the understanding and advancement of industrial-scale nitric acid production, providing valuable insights for the chemical engineering community and facilitating sustainable practices within the chemical manufacturing sector
Green & Sustainable Membranes for Efficient Bioethanol Purification via Pervaporation
(Library Information Services COMSATS University Islamabad Lahore Campus, 2023-02-27) Abeera Naeem; SP22-RNE-002; Dr. Muhammad Yasin; LHR TP 8636
Traditional membrane technologies, typically reliant on fossil-based polymers and hazardous solvents, pose significant environmental threats. To address these challenges, this study introduces an innovative approach: the development of hydrophobic mixed matrix membranes utilizing waste polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes and deep eutectic solvents (DES) based on thymol: urea as green additives. The research focuses on synthesizing two types of membranes: dense and asymmetrical. Each type is evaluated for its efficiency in terms of flux and selectivity. The asymmetric membranes undergo optimization processes, involving adjustments in polymer concentration, co-solvent use, and evaporation time, to enhance pervaporation performance. This optimization aims to achieve maximum ethanol flux and high separation factor. In contrast, the dense recycled PVC membranes exhibit comparable results to conventional polymeric membranes in terms of flux (1.98 kg/m2) and separation factor (16). Significantly, the incorporation of DES into the membrane matrix results in substantial performance improvements. The separation factor enhanced by approximately 125%, alongside a 36% increase in ethanol sorption capacity. Asymmetric membranes particularly demonstrate a higher potential in flux performance, reaching 5.12 kg/m2.hr, in contrast to dense membranes with a flux of 1.98 kg/m2.hr. These findings highlight the effectiveness of using recycled waste materials and DES in membrane fabrication. This approach not only enhances pervaporation performance but also aligns with the goals of green and sustainable membrane technology, offering a promising solution to environmental concerns in the field of membrane separation.
Catalytic Supercritical Water Gasification of Biomass for Hydrogen Production
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2024) Ali Ahsan; FA22-RNE-003; Dr. Murid Hussain; LHR TP 9306
With a focus on rice husk, this study explores the possibilities of supercritical water gasification (SCWG) for the effective synthesis of hydrogen from biomass. Compared to conventional fossil fuels, biomass is a possible substitute, and SCWG provides an energy- and environmentally friendly method of producing hydrogen. The need to maximize catalytic efficiency and reduce this process's environmental impact is what motivates the study. The main focus is on Ni/eggshell catalysts, with the goal of filling up important information gaps about catalytic activity, stability, and the generation of clean hydrogen from biomass sources that are renewable. This research assesses the performance of Ni/eggshell catalysts in biomass SCWG and seeks to establish the suitable working conditions that would yield the highest levels of hydrogen with negligible levels of by-products. The catalyst synthesized with three loadings (5 wt%, 10 wt%, and 20 wt%) in the production of hydrogen in SCW at three different temperatures (370°C, 450°C, and 500°C) and two residence time (60 minutes and 80 minutes) Also, it reviews the Ni/eggshell catalysts in the aspects of activity, stability, and impact on the environment in SCWG. Ni/eggshell proved to be very active in SCWG of rice husk biomass especially with moderate loading of Ni, (10 wt% provided adequate active sites with least chance of particle sintering). According to the experiments, the best conditions for hydrogen production were the temperature 500°C; the residence time of 80 minutes, and the catalyst loading of 10 wt%. These conditions gave the highest gas yields and hydrogen content, and the least solid residues implied that the biomass was almost fully converted. The SEM and XRD studies revealed that there are no morphological changes, and the Ni particles were effectively dispersed and uniformly distributed on the CaO support, thus the catalytic activity was constant. According to the obtained FTIR and XRD results, the catalyst was stable in the course of the reaction.
A Plant Design Project on the 67,000 tons per year of Green Ammonia Production through Novel Lithium-Mediated Pathway
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2024) M. Zubair Naeem (CIIT/FA20-CHE-001/LHR), Hamza Aasim (CIIT/FA20-CHE-013/LHR), Abdul Rehman Virk (CIIT/FA20-CHE-051/LHR), Habib Haider (CIIT/FA20-CHE-064/LHR), Shoaib Ali (CIIT/FA20-CHE-094/LHR); Dr. Wajih-ur-Rahman; LHR TP 9954
Welcome to our Chemical Engineering Final Year Design Project (FYDP), where innovation meets sustainability. Our project revolves around the concept of utilizing ammonia as a carbon-free energy carrier, allowing for decentralized and remote energy distribution. This is a pivotal step in reducing our dependence on the energy-intensive and carbon-heavy Haber-Bosch method for ammonia production. Our FYDP presents a novel approach – lithium-mediated electrochemical ammonia synthesis at mild process conditions. We dive deep into this innovative solution, aiming to not only reduce energy consumption but also the cost associated with ammonia production. Moreover, our focus extends to environmental considerations, assessing the environmental impact from start to finish. In this proposal, we'll explore the world of electrochemical ammonia synthesis using lithium-ion conductive membranes and cryogenic distillation for nitrogen generation. Our aim is to provide a sustainable alternative that rivals traditional methods, both in terms of cost and environmental friendliness. Join us on this journey through the realms of chemical engineering, innovation, and sustainability, as we design a green chemical plant that could reshape the future of energy production. Our FYDP represents our commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable world and our readiness to make a significant impact in the field of green chemistry.
Transforming Waste PET Bottles into High-Value MOF Adsorbents for the Removal of Emerging Pollutants from Wastewater
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2025) Beenish Shazadi; CUI/FA23-RNE-002/LHR; Prof. Dr. Aqeel Ahmed Bazmi; LHR TP 9673
Aggressive urbanization and globalization have led to severe environmental consequences in the past few decades. Among the major environmental challenges, water scarcity and plastic pollution are one of the most concerning. Waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, a durable and non-biodegradable plastic, takes centuries to degrade and has damaging consequences for aquatic and human life. On the other hand, several emerging contaminants in wastewater have called for new research to control their spread and reduce environmental impact. Pharmaceuticals are one of the emerging contaminants from the industrials and hospitals that are classified as a concerning and emerging contaminant in wastewater. This Master’s thesis addresses this dual challenge of waste PET bottle and pharmaceutical pollution in wastewater by upcycling waste PET bottles into a metal organic framework, an emerging adsorbent for wastewater treatment. Disodium terephthalate (DST), which is made by alkaline hydrolysis of PET, is used as the organic ligand in this study to convert PET waste into useful aluminum-based metal-organic frameworks (Al-MOFs) in a sustainable and economical manner. The synthesis complies with green chemistry and the circular economy by avoiding hazardous solvents and energy-intensive processes. Several characterization techniques were used to thoroughly characterize the resultant Al-DST MOFs. The successful creation of distinct, thermally stable, porous Al-DST structures with large surface areas that are suitable for adsorption was confirmed by characterization. Batch experiments were conducted to evaluate the adsorption efficiency of the as-synthesized Al-DST MOFs against Tetracycline (TC), a common antibiotic and a typical developing contaminant. The adsorption efficiency was evaluated by varying several parameters, including pH, contact time, starting concentration, and temperature. The Al-DST MOFs demonstrated excellent reusability over multiple cycles, rapid adsorption kinetics, and a high TC adsorption capacity. The Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models provided the best description of the adsorption data, demonstrating chemisorption-mediated uptake and monolayer adsorption onto a homogenous surface. This work demonstrates the potential of Al- DST MOFs extracted from waste PET bottles as efficient adsorbents in eliminating pharmaceutical contaminants from wastewater in addition to providing a sustainable and easily accessible route for PET upcycling. The plan offers a promising future for addressing the problems of plastic pollution and water contamination while also supporting the development of renewable materials
Simulation and Optimization of Mixed Refrigerant Hydrogen Liquefaction Process
(Library Information Services, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, 2025) Huzaifa Mahmood; CUI/SP23-RNE-001/LHR; Dr. Aqeel Ahmed Bazmi; LHR TP 9672
Hydrogen liquefaction is critical for enabling long-distance transport and storage of hydrogen, a key enabler of the global energy transition. However, its high energy demand, with conventional mixed refrigerant cycles consuming 10–13.58 kWh/kg of liquid hydrogen (LH₂), poses significant challenges. This study presents an optimized hydrogen liquefaction process modeled in Aspen HYSYS V11 and enhanced using the Teaching-Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO) algorithm in MATLAB. The proposed process employs a three-stage refrigeration cycle (precooling, cooling, and liquefaction) with tailored mixed refrigerants (methane, ethane, propane, nitrogen, helium, and hydrogen) to minimize exergy losses and improve thermodynamic efficiency while converting the hydrogen from ortho-para during the process. Optimization results yield a specific energy consumption (SEC) of 7.37 kWh/kg LH₂, a 25–30% reduction compared to conventional Claude- based cycles (10–13 kWh/kg), alongside an exergy efficiency of 65.32%, nearly double that of base case defined in comparison to this study i.e. 34%. Cost analysis at 1 ton per day (TPD) capacity estimates a unit liquefaction cost of 3.86 $/kg, with compressors contributing 90% of equipment costs. These findings demonstrate the potential of the proposed process to enhance the energy and economic viability of hydrogen liquefaction, supporting its role in sustainable energy systems. Future work integrating renewable energy sources could further reduce SEC and operational costs.