Synthesis and Optimization of Sustainable Processes Based on Liquid-Liquid Extraction to Purify Methyl Ethyl Ketone

Abstract Methyl-Ethyl Ketone (MEK) is a promising bulk chemical and can be produced in a biochemical route from biomass. Within this route, two azeotropes are formed because of the intermolecular interactions; thus, the purification of that mixture is difficult. In this study, a work of synthesis, design, and multi-objective optimization was carried out to generate sustainable alternatives to purify MEK, starting from a promising alternative previously reported. Those alternatives are hybrid processes that combine the advantages of using a liquid-liquid extraction column for handling the azeotropes aforementioned. All alternatives were modeled in Aspen Plus and were optimized using a hybrid stochastic optimization algorithm. As a result, interesting trends among objectives and design variables were found. Additionally, the thermally coupled alternative was shown as a promissory alternative with savings of 11%, 12% for the economic and environmental impact. Also, it showed improvements in controllability and no real penalty regarding safety issues in comparison with a case base.

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