ABSTRACT
Optimization is the computational process of minimizing or maximizing an objective function while satisfying the prevailing constraints. Optimization has been one of the most important engineering tools to address high energy cost, global competition in product price and quality, and stringent environmental regulations. In the chemical engineering industry, application of optimization techniques in production, process control, scheduling, inventory control, and transportation has resulted in significant cost savings and improved operational environments. In order for chemical engineers to apply optimization at their workplace, they must understand both the basic algorithms and the computational procedures.
In this chapter, we focus on optimization algorithms and MATLAB® programs that implement optimization techniques on practical problems. Presentation of theoretical concepts, derivations of optimization formulas, and rigorous optimization proofs are omitted. The introduction of each optimization algorithm is followed by MATLAB examples to illustrate applications and provide the reader with an understanding of how the optimization technique works.
The main objective of this chapter is to provide readers with various optimization techniques and corresponding MATLAB programs that have already been found, or can potentially be used, for academic or industrial applications. The MATLAB programs can be used in undergraduate or graduate courses on optimization. Researchers and practicing engineers in the field of process engineering can customize and apply these MATLAB programs in the design, simulation, and operation of chemical processes.
