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Computer aided process design and optimization with novel separation units

Objective

Advances in novel separation processes were developed under previous contracts i.e. supercritical extraction (JOUE900053 and JOUE92-CT-0244), melt crystallization (JOUE900031 and JOUE92-CT0077) and gas adsorption (JOUE900052 and JOU92-CT-0076). The aim of this project is to investigate the feasibility of employing these novel separation processes in place of conventional separation processes in chemical and biochemical process flowsheets with a view to optimal utilization of energy and with emphasis on environmental constraints. The project will also develop the model-based flowsheeting "tools" that are needed for the above mentioned investigation.

This project involves the development and application of a Computer Integrated Flowsheeting system that is able to identify candidate process flowsheets where novel separation processes can be employed and analyse the process alternatives offered by the use of novel separation processes with respect to environmental and energy constraints. The model-based flowsheeting "tools" to be developed should be able to identify industrial chemical processes where conventional separation processes (e.g. distillation, absorption, extraction) can be replaced totally or partially by novel separation processes consisting of supercritical extraction, melt crystallization, and gas adsorption, such that substantial energy savings and reduction of pollution of the environment will result. The developed flowsheeting "tools" will be applied to analyze the novel separation processes within the context of the total chemical process flowsheet to determine optimal conditions of operation with respect to energy utilization, economy and, subject to environmental constraints, and to determine the economic, energy and environmental benefits. It is estimated that the chemical industries consume approximately 10% of the energy used in industrialized countries.
Of these 10%, typically 50-60% are spent on conventional separation processes such as distillation, extraction and absorption. Thus, there is a big incentive to propose alternative separation schemes within the framework of the complete process flowsheet which will not only utilize the energy more efficiently, but, as well, will be more "friendly" to the environment.

Call for proposal

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Coordinator

Danmarks Tekniske Universitet
EU contribution
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Address

2800 Build Lyngby
Denmark

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Total cost
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Participants (5)