Design and operation of multiproduct and multipurpose batch chemical plants. — An analysis of problem structure

The general structure of batch processing problems is reviewed. A classification scheme is presented which analyses the specification of the system components, -comprising product requirements, specification of process tasks and available equipment items, followed by consideration of constraints on system structure, problem definition and solution methods. A hierarchy of model types for batch units is proposed for use in different problem situations. Examples of the use of the scheme are provided by the classification and comparison of selected publications on batch processing and the scheme is also used to draw attention to potential areas for further work. Brief remarks are added on problem size and computational experience in different areas of batch processing.