Superstructure Optimization of Naphtha Processing System with Environmental Considerations

The objective of this research project is to develop an optimization-based mathematical
model in the form of a mixed-integer linear program (MILP) for determining the optimal
configuration of a petroleum refmery. The scope for this project is to formulate the
superstructure representation model for a refinery focusing on the subsystem of naphtha
hydroprocessing in order to select the most economical and cost efficient process route.
The alternatives for all streams are evaluated and the optimal configuration is proposed
based on market demand by incorporating logical constraints and mass balance using the
GAMS modeling language platform. Based on the information and knowledge about the
physics of the problem of naphtha processing unit, we represent all these possible
processing alternatives on a superstructure. Carbon dioxide emission factors bave also
been considered in which relevant data is obtained using the carbon weighting tonne
(CWT) method. Computational studies are conducted on a representative numerical
example to illustrate the proposed modeling approach.