TECHNOECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF A DIRECT FREEZE DESALTING SYSTEM FOR TREATING HIGH SALINITY BRINES UTILIZING AN INTERMEDIATE COOLING LIQUID

High salinity brine is generated in large quantities as effluent from the reverse osmosis desalination plants, as well as oil and gas operations. Recently, there has been growing interest in treating high salinity brine to produce more freshwater and lower the disposal volume and cost. Freeze desalination (FD) can treat high salinity brine by cooling the feed and then separating the crystallized ice. Recent studies identified the FD system configuration linked to maximized energy efficiency. So far, all the available work linked to the raised energy efficiency FD system configuration is based on theoretical models involving approximations and assumptions. There exists a research gap on the accurate energy demand of the system and the corresponding economics. To bridge the gap, this study presents a comprehensive FD system model based on lab experiments and manufacturer data. The study also presents the technoeconomic analysis necessary for sizing the system and establishing energy efficient operational load control. The outcomes introduce a spectrum of potential profit when utilizing the FD system to treat the high salinity brine showing a profit of 4.29 $/bbl for the feed salinity of 35,000 ppm at a brine disposal cost of 7 $/bbl.