Simulation-based optimization of distillation processes using an extended cutting plane algorithm

The use of commercial flowsheeting programs enables straight-forward rigorous, but user hidden, mathematical formulations chemical processes. optimization such black-box models is a challenging task due to nonconvexity, absence accurate derivatives, and simulation convergence failures which can prevent classical procedures from continuing the search. Here, we present an framework based on extended cutting plane algorithm with additional heuristic techniques strategies designed improve its practical performance for solving nonconvex simulation-based MINLP problems. new algorithmic features include two approaches dealing nonconvexities; first technique expands search space restore feasibility MILP subproblems, second restarting avoid premature termination non-optimal solutions. We also propose handle failures, no-good cuts backtracking. proposed successfully applied four case studies economic distillation