This
paper presents a multiobjective optimization to obtain the
optimal planning of butanol production, considering the optimal selection
of feedstock and the correct ratio of fermentable sugars. This multiobjective
methodology was applied during both the fermentation and purification
process of butanol. The multiobjective optimization problem considers
minimizing the total annual cost and environmental impact as objective
function. The economic objective function takes into account the availability
of bioresources, the cost of feedstocks, the fermentation conditions,
and the separation units. On the other hand, the environmental assessment
includes the overall impact measured through the eco-indicator 99
which is based on a life cycle analysis methodology. Both objective
functions were applied to a case study for the optimal planning to
produce biobutanol in Mexico. After the optimization process, we generated
a set of solutions represented by a Pareto curve that identifies a
group of optimal solutions for both objectives. Considering the best
compromise of both targets, the best solution involves initially a
raw material with a moderate content of sugars followed by a separation
unit designed as a hybrid separation process. This hybrid process
considers the inclusion of a liquid–liquid extraction column
followed by three thermally coupled distillation columns.
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