As a result, process design problems that normally lead to noncnonvex programs can now be solved effectively through the solution of a possibly linear program . Object oriented programming tools permit us to visualize such networks, and use the solutions for further analysis. Reactive distillation makes possible the simultaneous synthesis and separation of useful compounds, and is extremely important for reducing waste generation. This work requires a thorough understanding of kinetics, design, distillation, and thermodynamics. These designs will be compared to systems that use adsorption and membranes.
Performance improvement offers tremendous economic benefit to the chemical industry.
Design methods need models that correlate the unit performance to the unit size. Such input-output relations to the unit size are crucial in solving separation tasks where multiple species are transferred. Group methods, such as the Underwood and Smith-Brinkley method for distillation, and KSB equations for absorption, are examples of these.