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The objective of the project is to develop computer optimization and simulation methodologies for the design of economical chemical manufacturing processes with a minimum of impact on the environment. The computer simulation and optimization tools developed in this project can be used to minimize the potential environmental impact of emissions by designing and building entirely new plants, by modifying existing facilities, or by altering operating conditions. These computer tools will search for ways to minimize the potential impact of pollution, while keeping capital and operating costs from increasing, i.e., the less polluting process would cost no more than that currently used. Three separate and increasingly sophisticated computer aided design methodologies for chemical process simulations will be developed. The first methodology will optimize the operating variables (e.g. flow rates, temperatures, pressures, etc.) while keeping costs from increasing, the second will optimize the configuration (e.g. the location and the interconnection between pieces of equipment) and the operating variables while keeping costs from increasing, and the third will simultaneously optimize configuration, operating variables and cost. Mathematically, the methodologies will minimize a pollution index that is calculated by multiplying the mass of each pollutant being emitted by a measure of its potential impact and summing over all pollutants. This index is a very carefully constructed function encompassing a comprehensive list of human health and environmental impacts ranging from carcinogenicity to ozone depletion for each chemical. For additional information on this project, visit the website at http://www.epa.gov/ORD/NRMRL/std/sab/sim_method_for_p2.htm. To access directly from this website, click on downloads on the navigation bar.

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