Design methodology for bio-based processing: Biodiesel and fatty alcohol production

A systematic design methodology is developed for producing multiple main products plus side products starting with one or more bio-based renewable source. A superstructure that includes all possible reaction and separation operations is generated through thermodynamic insights and available data. The number of alternative processes is systematically reduced through a screening procedure until only feasible alternatives are obtained. As part of the methodology, process intensification involving reaction–separation tasks is also considered to improve the design by shifting the equilibrium reactions. Economic analysis and net present value are determined to find the best economically and operationally feasible process. The application of the methodology is presented through a case study involving biodiesel and fatty alcohol productions.

► A systematic design methodology is developed for producing more than one main product. ► The complex design problem is managed by decomposing it into different hierarchical levels. ► The methodology is applied for the production of biodiesel integrated with fatty alcohol. ► A superstructure of the biodiesel and fatty alcohol integrated process is generated. ► Process intensification improves the process by reducing heat duties and production costs.