CHEN570 Process Synthesis and
Optimization
Course Description
A course that covers the principles and application of optimization in the chemical industry.
The course contents include unconstrained optimization, linear programming, nonlinear
programming with constraints, mixed-integer optimization, model predictive control. Heat
integration, pinch analysis and heat exchanger network design, mass integration, direct
recycling and mass exchange networks design are also studied.
Prerequisites
CHEN 411 Heat and Mass Transfer Operations
CHEN 451 Process Control
CHEN 470 Chemical Process Design
Credit hours
3 credit hours
Class schedule:
Two 90 minutes lectures per week.
References
1. Optimization of Chemical Processes, 2nd edition, Edgar, Himmelblau and Lasdon 2001.
2. Chemical Proces Design and Integration, Robin Smith, 2007.
3. Nonlinear and Mixed-Integer Optimization, Floudas, 1995.
4. Analysis, Synthesis and Design of Chemical Processes, 4 th Edition, Turton, Bailie, Whiting,
Shaeiwitz and Bhattacharyya, 2013.
Course Topics
1- Basic concepts of optimization
2- Optimization of unconstrained functions, Newton and Quasi-Newton Methods
3- Unconstrained multivariable optimization, Simplex search, Grid search, Random
search
4- Linear programming, Simplex and Barrier methods
5- Nonlinear Programming, Quadratic and Lagrangian methods
6- Mixed-Integer Programming, Branch-and Bounds method
7- Pinch Analysis and Heat Integration
8- Mass Integration, direct recycling
9- Mass exchange networks design
Grading
Midterm 20%
Projects 40%
Final Exam 40%
Projects
Projects are essential part of the course requirements where students are divided into small
teams to work on specific process optimization case studies. You are expected to write a
report for each project. More details on projects and final reports will be given at the end of
the semester.
Academic Conduct
Students are expected to practice and uphold standards of academic integrity and honesty.
Examples of dishonesty: cheating in exams and homework; plagiarizing the work of others.
However, legitimate collaboration and team working is encouraged but academic dishonesty
will not be tolerated. All students must pass the plagiarism test.
Make-up Tests
No make-up test will be given for a missed midterm. Special cases (such as absence with
doctor’s notice) will be studied on an individual basis if the notice is received at least by the
same day of the test.
Students with disabilities
AUB strives to make learning experiences as accessible as possible. If you anticipate or
experience academic barriers due to a disability (including mental health, chronic or
temporary medical conditions), please inform me immediately so that we can privately
discuss options. In order to help establish reasonable accommodations and facilitate a
smooth accommodations process, you are encouraged to contact the Accessible Education
Office: accessibility@[Link]; +961-1-350000, x3246; West Hall, 314.
Specific Outcomes of Instruction
Formulate optimization problems in the chemical/process industry.
Learn the concepts of LP, MINLP and NLP methods.
Design heat exchanger networks using heat integration and pinch analysis
Ability to work in a team (enhanced team and interpersonal skills).
Improved communications skills through report writing.
Student Outcomes Addressed by the Course
Ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering.
Ability to identify, formulate and solve engineering problems.
The broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in
a global, economic, environmental and societal context.
Recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning.
An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for
engineering practice.
