Global optimization of process networks with multicomponent flows

Abstract: "This paper deals with the global optimization of networks consisting of splitters, mixers and linear process units and which involve multicomponent streams. Examples include pooling and blending systems and sharp separation networks. A reformulation-linearization technique is first applied to concentration and flow based models in order to obtain a relaxed LP formulation that provides a valid lower bound to the global optimum. This formulation is then used within a spatial branch and bound search. The application of this method is considered in detail for sharp separation systems with single feed and mixed products. Numerical results are presented on twelve test problems to show that only few nodes are commonly required in the branch and bound search."