Topology-Based Initialization for the Optimization-Based Design of Heteroazeotropic Distillation Processes

Distillation-based separation processes, such as extractive or heteroazeotropic distillation, present important processes for separating azeotropic mixtures in the chemical and biochemical industry. However, distillation has received much less attention than which can be attributed to multiple reasons. The phase equilibrium calculations require a correct evaluation of stability, while topology heterogeneous is generally more complex, comprising azeotropes regions, resulting an increased modeling complexity. Due integration columns decanter, even simulation these considered challenging, optimal process design should include selection suitable solvent, considering performance integrated hybrid process. Yet, intricate mixture topologies largely impede use simplified criteria solvent selection. To overcome limitations allow process-based screening potential solvents, current work presents topology-based initialization optimization approach designing processes. systematic enables efficient different solvents with topologies, further exploited optimization-based sensitivity analysis multi-objective optimization. Three case studies are analyzed about 170 individually optimized designs, including stage numbers, feed locations, ratios, heat duties.