Screening models for batch process development Part I. Design targets for reaction/distillation networks

Screening formulations for batch process development are introduced. Screening models bound the dynamic performance of batch distillation and reaction tasks with algebraic models. The discrete design decisions related to the structure of the processing network and the assignment of equipment are considered simultaneously with the dynamic decisions concerning the operating policies of the tasks within a convex mixed-integer model that yields a rigorous lower bound on the cost of the design. These formulations not only provide design targets to measure the potential for improving existing designs, but also perform aspects of the process synthesis such as selection of separation structures and solvents from a list of candidates. The derivation of the screening models and the way in which they can be used to enhance existing techniques for batch process development are discussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.