Process design using engineering tool

We mainly use Aspen plus for process design, with Python or MATLAB to support our design work. Working with Aspen Plus provides the essential foundation for process simulation. 

Process design based on separation feasibilities

Separation processes follow basic feasibility rules. We visualize these limits on 2D/3D diagrams to understand the nature of the separation, and then design the process accordingly.

AI-based process design automation

The feasibility of a separation is determined by specific rules, which can be learned through AI. We are conducting research to use AI to greatly shorten decision times in the design phase, with the goal of automating process synthesis, optimization, and integration via ML.

Innovative distillation design

We go beyond basic separation design to find the most optimal process. Examples include Dividing Wall Column (DWC) designs which uses a partition in the middle of a column, and the strategetic use of heat exchangers to maximize waste-heat recovery, or so on.

Process evaluation 

Processes must be evaluated after they are designed. We divide this evaluation into the 3Es (Energy, Economy, and Environment) and calculate how much the new process has improved compared to the existing one. Thermodynamic analyses are also involved here.

Life cycle assessment (LCA)

We evaluate proposed processes using a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This allows us to see in detail which factors have improved. In particular, we give priority to environmental factors, such as CO2 emissions.