Simultaneous optimization and heat integration of a macroalgae-based biorefinery

RAMOS, FERNANDO D.; CASONI, ANDRÉS I.; ESTRADA, VANINA; DIAZ, M. SOLEDAD

Computer Aided Chemical Engineering

Elsevier B.V.

Año: 2021 vol. 50 p. 1581 - 1586

1570-7946

In this work, we address a simultaneous optimization and heat integration of a macroalgae biorefinery based on a previous study. As regards heat integration, it considers minimization of heat exchanging total annual cost, assuming isothermal mixing of the streams and overall heat balance within each stage. The resulting MINLP model has 1236 continuous variables, 339 binary variables and 1338 constraints. Hot and cold utilities were 43 % reduced signifying 53 % of savings. Moreover, it favored the environmental aspects of the process which disregarded though it may be, we consider it crucial.