Modelling and simulation in chemical engineering: Tools for process innovation

The Chemical Engineering Science movement has served well in solving problems from micro to macro scales. Ultimately, as Professor R. Sargent pointed out, it would be better if translated in "Scientific Engineering". Examples of innovation as a combination of science (concept), technology and process/product will be presented. The first example is perfusion chromatography based on the concept of "diffusivity augmented by convection" and on the technology of fabrication of large-pore packings. The second example, Simulated Moving Bed (SMB), is based on a concept developed to overcome the difficulties in implementing True Moving Bed processes. Technological contributions come from adsorbent materials and rotary valve to simulate the solid movement. SMB is now a key technology for chiral separations. Modelling/Simulation tools provide sound basis for design/operation by using the concept of "separation volume". The third example is from the area of multifunctional reactors. The SMB technology is extended to the simultaneous reaction/separation. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.