Synthesis of mass exchange network

The synthesis of mass exchange network (MEN) is one of the new branches of process systems engineering.In this paper,the studying contents and researching progresses cited in literature are reviewed.Two kinds of researching methodologies,i.e.targeting approach and mathematical programming method,are briefly introduced.The important systems of reactive mass exchange network (REAMEN),heat induced separation network (HISEN),and waste interception and allocation network (WIN) are discussed in detail.It is predicated that the further study of MEN should focus on the application of the mass integration in the pollution prevention and cleaner production,as well as holistic process integration combining energy and mass integration.The further developing trend should be the studies of practical systems,in which various factors are considered.