Onuoha Fidelis Wopara
Petroleum Engineering Department, Rivers State University Port-Harcourt

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An Examination of Non-Traditional Approaches to Liquefying Natural Gas Onuoha Fidelis Wopara; Nnadikwe Johnson
Journal Majelis Paspama Vol. 4 No. 02 (2026): Journal Majelis Paspama, 2026, inpres
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Liquefied natural gas (LNG) plays a vital role in the energy industry due to its high energy density, low carbon footprint, and ease of transportation. The emergence of unconventional natural gas resources is reshaping the LNG landscape, requiring specialized liquefaction approaches. This review examines non-traditional approaches to liquefying natural gas, focusing on coalbed methane, synthetic natural gas, LNG-FPSO, and pressurized liquefied natural gas (PLNG). We analyze the unique characteristics and challenges of these processes, highlighting recent advancements in design and optimization. Coalbed methane liquefaction, for instance, requires efficient methane separation and oxygen removal techniques. Synthetic natural gas liquefaction involves optimizing methanation reactions and integrating with existing infrastructure. LNG-FPSO technology addresses space constraints and sloshing conditions on offshore platforms. PLNG offers a compact solution with pressurized storage, enhancing CO2 solubility and reducing equipment footprint. The shift towards unconventional gas sources demands innovative liquefaction solutions. Key areas of development include advanced separation technologies, compact and safe process designs, and enhanced heat transfer mechanisms.
Implementing Eco-Efficient Mercury Mitigation Strategies in Natural Gas Operations for Enhanced Sustainability Onuoha Fidelis Wopara; Nnadikwe Johnson
Journal Majelis Paspama Vol. 4 No. 02 (2026): Journal Majelis Paspama, 2026, inpres
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Mercury contamination in natural gas fields poses significant environmental and operational risks, particularly to brazed aluminum heat exchangers in LNG facilities and nitrogen rejection units. To address these concerns, this research evaluates eco-efficient mercury mitigation strategies for natural gas operations. Various mercury removal technologies are assessed, including metal sulfide adsorbents and activated carbons, with a focus on a gas project containing up to 70 µg/Sm3 of mercury. Technical and economic analysis reveals that sulfur-impregnated metallic oxide technology is the most suitable option for mercury removal. Key findings indicate that installing the mercury removal unit after the inlet separator and before CO2 removal minimizes mercury venting and pipe contamination. The bed's lifespan depends on feed gas pretreatment, and filtration is required regardless of location. Cost analysis shows metal oxide technology has the lowest CAPEX due to smaller vessel size and lowest overall cost over 25 years. Activated carbon beds have the cheapest single bed cost and OPEX, but similar lifespan to metal oxide beds. The proposed location works well with water-saturated gas below 95°C. Implementing these strategies enhances sustainability and protects equipment
Sustainable Profitability Analysis of Natural Gas-Based Methanol Production Onuoha Fidelis Wopara; Nnadikwe Johnson
Journal Majelis Paspama Vol. 4 No. 02 (2026): Journal Majelis Paspama, 2026, inpres
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Abstract

Methanol production from natural gas is gaining traction as a sustainable alternative to conventional fuels. This paper presents an economic analysis and design of large-scale methanol production, optimizing synthesis gas composition (CO/CO₂ ratio) for enhanced yield. A Maximum Energy Recovery (MER) heat exchanger network reduces operational costs, achieving a break-even point of 2.69 years. Key results include: production capacity meeting ~1% of global demand, total operating cost optimized at 4× raw materials cost, and a fixed-tube sheet heat exchanger (22.54 m²) selected for low-temperature heat exchange. Sensitivity analyses demonstrate robustness against natural gas price fluctuations and methanol market trends, underscoring the process's economic viability and environmental sustainability.
Efficient Propane-Ethane Fractionation within Petrochemical Plant Operations Nnadikwe Johnson; Onuoha Fidelis Wopara
Journal Majelis Paspama Vol. 4 No. 02 (2026): Journal Majelis Paspama, 2026, inpres
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Efficient propane-ethane fractionation is crucial in petrochemical complexes, enabling the production of high-purity products. This paper focuses on the treatment of ethane-propane mixtures recovered from natural gas, highlighting the interplay between key units: Gas Sweetening Unit (GSU), C2/C3 Recovery Unit, and Gas Cracker Unit (GCU). In the GSU, acid gases like CO2 are removed via chemical absorption using solvents like DEA, preventing freezing issues in downstream cryogenic processes. The 'sweetened' gas feeds into the C2/C3 Recovery Unit, where cryogenic conditions enable efficient ethane-propane separation. Optimizing fractionation in this unit enhances GCU performance, boosting ethylene and propylene yields. Process integration and energy efficiency are critical considerations. This study explores efficient propane-ethane fractionation strategies, aiming to improve overall petrochemical complex performance. Key aspects of this process include effective CO2 removal in the GSU, ensuring process reliability. Cryogenic separation in the C2/C3 Recovery Unit enables high-purity product recovery. The impact on GCU performance is significant, as efficient fractionation boosts downstream yields. Energy-efficient fractionation strategies are also crucial for reducing operating costs and environmental impact. By optimizing these aspects, petrochemical complexes can improve product yields, reduce energy consumption, and enhance overall efficiency. This research contributes to the development of efficient propane-ethane fractionation technologies, supporting the growth of the petrochemical industry.