Optimal Design of Poly (3-hydroxybutyrate) Production using alternative Carbon Sources

RAMOS, FEMANDO D.; VILLAR, MARCELO A.; DIAZ, M. SOLEDAD

Computer Aided Process Engineering

Elsevier B.V.

Lugar: Barcelona; Año: 2017 vol. 40 p. 877 - 882

1570-7946

In this work, we prpose a mixed integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model to determine the optimal flosheet and raw material for the production of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) from different carbon sources, namely, crude glycerol (with the possibilityto be purified), cassava starch and sugarcane. The objective functions is Net Present Value. Model equality constraints include mass and energy balances, and detailed capital cost for process equipment, while inequality constraints include product specifications and operationg bounds on process units. the resulting MINLP model has 3167 continuous variables, 13 discrete variables and 3079 constraits. The proposed moel constitutes a powerfulñ tool to shortlist PHB production pathways with higher economic potential looking forward to the improvement of biopolymer production using alternative carbon sources and process schemes.