Optimization of batch distillation processes using BB-BC method

فاقد چكيده

Batch distillation processes are widely used in the chemical industry. In this work, we consider the optimization of such processes by a novel optimization method that relies on one of the theories of the evolution of the universe; namely, the Big Bang and Big Crunch Theory. In the Big Bang phase, energy dissipation produces disorder and randomness is the main feature of this phase; whereas, in the Big Crunch phase, randomly distributed particles are drawn into an order. Inspired by this theory, an optimization algorithm has been constructed, which will be called the Big Bang–Big Crunch (BB–BC) method that generates random points in the Big Bang phase and shrinks those points to a single representative point via a center of mass or minimal cost approach in the Big Crunch phase. The new method has been applied to a batch distillation design case study involving multicomponent mixture. The results show the potential of this method for developing optimal operation strategies for batch chemical processes.