A new algebraic tool for simultaneous targeting and design of a mass exchange network with stream splitting for sustainable environment

Abstract

Process effluent recovery can be a potential source of revenue and an effective way to reduce environmental footprints of industrial processes. Use of resource conservation technologies, resource-efficient processes and measures to reduce, recycle and reuse of various raw materials and waste are among sustainable manufacturing and cleaner production options to consider. Mass integration, taking place in mass exchange networks (MEN) is an established concept for more efficient use of raw materials. The integration can help to reduce both waste disposal flows and external mass separating agents. This work presents a novel algebraic tool for simultaneous targeting and design of mass exchange networks to overcome the limitations of previously developed mass integration algebraic targeting approach such as the Composition Interval Table (CIT). The newly developed Segregated Composition Interval Table (SECIT) shows mass cascade profiles across composition ranges for individual rich and lean streams. The tool can simultaneously target and design MEN, locate mass Pinch Point and to visualise mass exchange network. The SECIT method is demonstrated for a multiple Pinch and threshold problem, as well as stream splitting scenarios. Three literature case studies are presented to illustrate the applicability of the new approach.