Process modelling

What is process simulation?

Process simulation aims to represent a process of chemical or physical transformation through a mathematic model that involves the calculation of mass and energy balances coupled with phase equilibrium and with transport and chemical kinetics equations.

The mathematical model employed in process simulation contains linear, nonlinear, and differential algebraic equations, which represent equipment or process operations, physical–chemical properties, connections between the equipment and operations and their specifications.

Why is it important?

• Gives a detailed outline of a process: size, types, dimensions, duties, utilities, costs
• Quantifies material and energy flows
• Gives improved and optimised designs
• Saves time and human error
• Can be used for sensitivity and scenario analysis
• Can set the foundation for economic and environmental assessments

Our expertise and activities

We are developing

• a process model for carbon capture utilisation storage (CCUS) systems
• process models for renewable decentralised energy solutions
• kinetic models of reactor systems

Detailed research areas

• Sustainable liquid fuel production from CO₂ or biomass
• Biomethane production via biochemical or thermochemical routes
• Post combustion capture via chemical absorption
• Waste heat utilisation
• Integration of renewable technologies for combined cooling heating and power (CCHP) applications
• Techno-economic and life cycle assessments

Key people

Professor Mohamed Pourkashanian
Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering

Jonathan Gibbins
Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering

Dr Kevin J Hughes
Senior Lecturer, Department of Mechanical Engineering

Dr Stavros Michailos
Research Associate, Department of Mechanical Engineering

For more information please contact Dr Stavros Michailos.