Interval based MINLP superstructure synthesis of combined heat and mass exchanger networks

An interval based superstructure approach for combining the synthesis of heat and mass exchanger networks is presented in this paper. The technique involves combining the interval based MINLP superstructure (IBMS) for the synthesis of heat exchanger networks (HENs) with that of mass exchanger networks (MENs). The two networks are made to interact through the lean stream in the mass exchange network. The new approach involves the use of the lean substream concept to explore potential mass exchange temperatures. An example which involves a one-lean stream mass exchange problem alongside regeneration and hot and cold utilities is presented.