Algorithmic approaches to process synthesis : logic and global optimization

Abstract: "This paper presents an overview on two recent developments in optimization techniques that address previous limitations that have been experienced with algorithmic methods in process synthesis: combinatorics and local optima. The first part deals with the development of logic based models and techniques for discrete optimization which can facilitate the modelling of these problems as well as reducing the combinatorial search. It will be shown that various levels can be considered for the integration of logic in mixed-integer optimization techniques. The second part deals with the development of deterministic optimization methods that can rigorously determine the global optimum in nonconvex optimization models. It will be shown that this can be effectively accomplished with algorithms that exploit identifiable nonlinear structures. Examples are presented throughout the paper and future research directions are also briefly discussed.