Sebastian Andres Quevedo Parra
PhD thesis title: Decarbonization potential of the cement industry through electrification
Academic Tutor: Paolo Chiesa
Academic Supervisor: Matteo Carmelo Romano
PhD cycle: 37° (see all student profiles of the same cycle > LINK)
BSc: Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Concepción
MSc: Sustainable Energy Technology, Technical University of Delft
6 months at the Danish Technological Institute in Copenhagen (from April - September 2023). Experimental campaign to test an electrified calciner through magnetic induction. The results will be used to improve the mass and energy balance of the process model.
Thesis abstract
In this research project, I assess the competitiveness of an electrified cement industry. First, I use process modelling in Aspen Plus to estimate techno-economic KPIs of several electrification technologies and contrast the results against the benchmark decarbonization strategy (carbon capture). Then, I compare the competitiveness of an electrified cement industry versus other industries with high electrification potential (iron & steel, chemical, etc), by modelling the impact of their combined load into the power grid and optimizing for the lowest cost. Finally, I complete the assessment with a scenario analysis of future market conditions.
Personal interest in my research theme
My background as a system engineer forces me to look at problems holistically. This is particularly relevant when addressing climate change and the energy transition, where several aspects are interconnected. In this sense, my research project allows me to explore the decarbonization of one of the most difficult industries to decarbonize, not only from a technology and economic perspective but also from a systemic point of view. Developing this project excites me because I am certain that we will produce valuable insights while gaining tools and knowledge for solving larger and more complex problems.
