Process optimisation

C. E. Duerr and co-workers, Nitroguanidine Process Optimisation, ARLCB-CR-85031, ARDEC, Dover, N.J., Sept. 1985. 

Sheikh, A.Y. and Jones, A.G., 1997. Crystallization process optimisation through a revised machine learning methodology. American Institution of Chemical Engineers Journal, 43, 1448-1457. 

Woinaroschy, A., Isopescu, R. and Fillipescu, L., 1994. Crystallisation process optimisation using artificial neural networks. Chemical Engineering Technik, 17, 269-272. 

Aim of this work was to optimise enzymatic depolymerization of pectins to valuable oligomers using commercial mixtures of pectolytic enzymes. Results of experiments in continuous and batch reactor configurations are presented which give some preliminary indications helpful to process optimisation. The use of continuous reactors equipped with ultrafiltration membranes, which assure removal of the reaction products, allows to identify possible operation policy for the improvement of the reaction yield. 

As an example, Baitz et al7 focused on different technologies and peripheral system conditions to reduce dust and heavy metal emissions from a refinery. They stressed that the knowledge of the sensitive life cycle parameters and a suitable database, and thus the possibility to quantify impacts, enables a sustainable decision-making in process design and process optimisation. 

Azapagic, A. Clift, R. (1999) The Application of Life Cycle Assessment to Process Optimisation. Computers and Chemical Engineering, 23(10), 1509-1526. 

A basic use of a process model is to analyse experimental data and to use this to characterise the process, by assigning numerical values to the important process variables. The model can then also be solved with appropriate numerical data values and the model predictions compared with actual practical results. This procedure is known as simulation and may be used to confirm that the model and the appropriate parameter values are "correct". Simulations, however, can also be used in a predictive manner to test probable behaviour under varying conditions, leading to process optimisation and advanced control strategies. 

Models may be used for process optimisation. Optimisation usually involves the influence of two or more variables, with one often directly related to profits and the other related to costs. 

Chapter 2 is employed to provide a general introduction to signal and process dynamics, including the concept of process time constants, process control, process optimisation and parameter identification. Other important aspects of dynamic simulation involve the numerical methods of solution and the resulting stability of solution both of which are dealt with from the viewpoint of the simulator, as compared to that of the mathematician. 

Himmelblau, D. M. (1963) Ind. Eng. Chem. Process Design and Development 2, 296. Process optimisation by search techniques. 

From these definitions one may corroborate the intention of HTS in chemistry and materials science. The total speed-up factor of this part of the R D (Research and Development) process, as stated earlier, is between 5 and 50, but contrary to most of the pharma applications true (semi-) quantitative answers will result. As a result, this approach is essentially applicable in any segment of R D. On the other hand, this approach requires methods of experimentation that have almost the same if not the same accuracy as in the traditional one-experiment-at-the time approach. This is key as (i) in process optimisation accuracy is key and (ii) in research, also in academic research, accuracy is important as some polymer properties do not span a wide range of values (e.g., the elastic modulus of amorphous polymers) or may depend critically on molecular weight distribution or molecular order. 

Chen, C.R., Ramaswamy, H.S., and Alii, 1.2001. Prediction of quality changes during osmoconvective drying of blueberries using neural network models for process optimisation. Dry. Technol. 19, 507-523. 

The background to the forthcoming harmonisation of standards and testing procedures for plastics in contact with water is outlined and a brief discussion is presented on the expected unified tests, the synoptic documents in which raw materials, which pass these tests, will be included and the process optimisation carried out by Ticona to conform to the new requirements. (Kunststoffe, 92, No.2, 2002, p.77-9)... 

EMOS is a combined hardware and software system that gathers chemical and electrical parameters in real-time and processes them so that close process monitoring is maintained along with information that will lead to process optimisation (see Fig. 8.1). EMOS is composed of three main components ... 

One of the most attractive features of the IL/CO2 approach to homogeneous catalysis is the development of continuous processes [7]. Consequently it needs to be demonstrated that the combination of a suitable IL and compressed CO2 can offer more potential for process optimisation than just a simple protocol for batch-wise catalyst recycling. As an example we were able to activate, tune and immobilise Ni catalyst 13 in a continuous-flow system for the hydroviny-lation of styrene (Scheme 3). Styrene is co-dimerised with ethene yielding 3-substituted 1-butenes [26,27]. We could show that this powerful carbon-carbon bond-forming reaction can be achieved with high enantioselectivity in batch-wise operation and in continuous-flow systems. 

After the process optimisation (Scheme 7), the final results gave similar yields to the ones reported in batch trials [19]. The overall conclusion was positive as the continuous reaction procedure afforded more constant yields, a safer handling of... 

After the initially performed aldol condensations and the process optimisation, the scope of the reaction was further extended to an enantiomeric Mannich reaction. The authors started from A-PMP-protected ot-imino ethyl glyoxylate and cyclohexanone in the presence of 5% catalyst loading. In 10 min at 60°C, the conversions were complete and the p-aminoketone was obtained in 91% yield and >95% ee after purification on column. 

However, as important as the Hu and Bentley Model is the stepwise approach to process optimisation that Hu and Bentley have reported [33]. The focus on quantitative analysis of protease degradation of the product over time, along with the similar approach followed by Cruz et al. [25], also indicate new directions to follow in mathematical modelling regarding product expression optimisation. 

Identification and elimination of compounds causing off-tastes. Elimination is often process-optimisation oriented and in general not a matter of flavour development or optimisation. 

Chemical Leasing suggests new forms of payments for chemicals that direct the economic interests of all partners towards process optimisation and reduction of chemicals consumption. 

In addition to the economic advantages ChL also has obvious environmental advantages. Process optimisation not only leads to a reduced chemical consumption but very often also to a reduction in the consumption of other resources like energy or water. As a result the waste load as well as air and water pollution will decrease, reducing the total environmental impact of the production process. 

Provides information and data relevant to process optimisation. 

What were the key benefits expected leading to your participation in the project To offer our know how on process optimisation related to lubrification in a pilot project to a sugar mill and extend business to various sugar mills in the region. ... 

Payment according to the Chemical Leasing agreement between the parties is based on the amount (cubic meters) of purified water. The process optimisation provided the reduction of 1 m3 wastewater purification cost from the initial value of about 27 Euro to 13 Euro established according to the Chemical Leasing agreement. 

Please assess if reduction of chemicals consumption by process optimisation can be expected ... 

Are several users existing running the same process (potential multiplying factor) or are suppliers known that might contribute to process optimisation and that might have other clients for the same chemicals ... 

Upon approval, start-up of the implementation of the work plan for the process optimisation phase. 

Implementation of process optimisation (e.g., process modification and adjustment) in very close cooperation with the chemicals supplier. 

Following the process optimisation, the design of the Chemical Leasing business model should be initiated. Besides a detailed cost benefit analysis the essential part of this phase is the elaboration of the Chemical Leasing contract with all the related financial, legal, technical, management, implementation and monitoring issues for the implementation of ChL. 

Depreciation of investment (analysing the process, optimisation concept) total EUR 5,000 1,000... 

Cost reductions Environmental protection REACH compliance Focus on core competencies Process optimisation... 

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