Industrial Process Simulators Applied to the Study of Biomass Conversion
摘要
This chapter examines the application of industrial process simulators in the study of biomass conversion, emphasizing their importance for developing, optimizing, and controlling industrial processes. Chemical process simulators, both in static and dynamic states, enable the analysis of complex systems without requiring physical experimentation, thus saving time and resources. Key biomass conversion technologies currently include thermochemical processes (such as gasification, pyrolysis, and combustion), biochemical processes (such as fermentation and anaerobic digestion), and physicochemical processes (such as hydrogenation and transesterification for renewable diesel production). These technologies benefit significantly from the use of simulators to optimize performance, assess economic feasibility, integrate energy systems, and analyze environmental impacts. Static simulation evaluates steady-state conditions, while dynamic simulation is essential for analyzing temporal variations in transient processes and control systems. These simulations solve systems of algebraic differential equations that describe mass and energy balances, incorporating thermodynamic and kinetic models. Predicting operational scenarios and identifying process improvements is critical for advancing sustainable and efficient biomass conversion technologies. Accurate simulations rely on reliable data and the proper adjustment of model variables, underscoring the importance of precise instrumentation and comprehensive process information. This chapter spotlights the pivotal role of simulation tools in the ongoing development of the biomass conversion industry, addressing the growing demands for sustainability and energy efficiency.