Phase Equilibrium Engineering

Traditionally, the teaching of phase equilibria emphasizes the relationships between the thermodynamic variables of each phase in equilibrium rather than its engineering applications. This book changes the focus from the use of thermodynamics relationships to compute phase equilibria to the design and control of the phase conditions that a process needs.

Phase Equilibrium Engineering presents a systematic study and application of phase equilibrium tools to the development of chemical processes. The thermodynamic modeling of mixtures for process development, synthesis, simulation, design and optimization is analyzed. The relation between the mixture molecular properties, the selection of the thermodynamic model and the process technology that could be applied are discussed. A classification of mixtures, separation process, thermodynamic models and technologies is presented to guide the engineer in the world of separation processes. The phase condition required for a given reacting system is studied at subcritical and supercritical conditions.

The four cardinal points of phase equilibrium engineering are: the chemical plant or process, the laboratory, the modeling of phase equilibria and the simulator. The harmonization of all these components to obtain a better design or operation is the ultimate goal of phase equilibrium engineering.

• Methodologies are discussed using relevant industrial examples
• The molecular nature and composition of the process mixture is given a key role in process decisions
• Phase equilibrium diagrams are used as a drawing board for process implementation

Esteban A. Brignole is Professor Emeritus at the Universidad Nacional Sur and Superior Researcher at CONICET PLAPIQUI, Bahai Blanca, Argentina. He is recognized as arguably the most prominent figure in Applied Thermodynamics in Latin America. His major research contributions are the pioneering work on molecular design of solvents and the novel integration of rigorous thermodynamic methods to process engineering, which have gained him international recognition. The leitmotif of his 50-year-long career has been the development of Chemical Engineering in Iberoamerican countries, where he has contributed to the establishment of successful programs of industry/academy collaboration and international cooperation. His idea of organizing EQUIFASE, while still in the early stages of his career, is an example of successful action to promote regional integration. The most prominent characteristic of his personality is his passion for progress and innovation, following Professor Brignole’s favourite quote from George Bernard Shaw: “The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man.”

Selva Pereda is Principal Researcher at the Argentinean National Research Council (CONICET) and Associate Professor at National South University, Argentina. Her research field of interest is the thermodynamic modelling of complex systems and its application to process and product conceptual design for the development of biorefineries. Her contributions are focused on the systematic application of thermodynamic tools to develop pressure-intensified technologies. She is an Editorial board member of the Elsevier Journal of Supercritical Fluids.