Methodology for decision support among conflicting objectives using process simulators

For solving multiobjective decision making problems, which may arise during optimization of operating or design of process plants, a systematic and effective procedure is required. As far as the process or control system has to be modified process simulators like Aspen Plus are widely used. But these simulators are not designed for investigation of other objectives as environment and safety. Due to complex and conflicting nature of multiobjective decision making an integrated optimization tool should be of value. In this paper a systematic methodology and its different stages to deal this problem is presented. The methodology consists of four stages/layers: 1) Problem definition and generation of process alternatives 2) Analysis of alternatives 3) Multiobjective optimization 4) Alternative design evaluation layer. The multiobjective optimization layer is based on goal programming using Aspen Plus and the optimization tool of MatLab. Relevant aspects of the methodology - so far up to now developed - is explained and demonstrated with the help of an industrial separation process.