SEPARATION OF NONIDEAL MIXTURES BASED ON MASS HEAT EXCHANGE PRINCIPLES - THE ENTRAINER SELECTION AND SEQUENCING PROBLEM/

In this paper, we propose a systematic procedure for the synthesis of feasible and optimal separation systems for nonideal mixtures by which entrainer and sequencing alternatives can be simultaneously explored. A multipurpose mass/heat exchange block is utilised as the building b lock to represent separation units and structures which are not explic itly pre-postulated but rather investigated as mass and heat exchange possibilities. Within this representation, feasibility of separation i s ensured through systematic characterization of the mixture using det ailed thermodynamic models and suitable mass driving force constraints . Once promising schemes have been identified, they can be considered further for detailed design optimization.