An MINLP process synthesizer for a sequential modular simulator

Abstract: "This paper deals with the development of an MINLP synthesizer for sequential modular simulators. Firstly, a variant of the OA/ER/AP algorithm for MINLP problems is presented that makes use of Benders cuts in previous or subsequent iterations. An automatic process synthesis environment is then described for the ASPEN simulator using this algorithm, with the decomposition strategy by Kocis and Grossman (1989). The application of this new capability is demonstrated with several examples including the structural optimization of the hydrodealkylation of tolune process.