Nature-Inspired Principles for Sustainable Process Design in Chemical Engineering

Nature's lessons, AI's power: sustainable process design with generative AI

“…In this study, we utilize the same case study as in our previous research (Mas'udah et al, 2021), where natural principles were integrated into the SDA framework to address diverse challenges. The case study pertains to enhancing the efficacy of the froth flotation process utilized in the extraction of nickel from pyrophyllite.…”

“…The methodology employed in this study adopts the Solution-Driven Approach (SDA) outlined in Table 1, which builds upon our recent study on learning eco-innovation from nature (Livotov et al, 2020). This SDA was modified from the method introduced by Helms et al (2009) and utilized to identify ecoinventive principles in natural systems for solving eco-engineering contradictions, as previously demonstrated in our research (Mas'udah et al, 2021;Mas'udah et al, 2022). The iterative algorithm begins by systematically searching for biological ecosystems that operate under constant or temporary environmental stress, such as high or low temperatures, extreme sun radiation or other harmful energy fields, as well as exposure to toxic substances or hazardous organisms within the environment etc.…”

“…To address these challenges, as illustrated in Figure 1, the methodology commences with the identification and examination of solutions derived from natural ecosystems. Various natural ecosystems in adverse environment were studied to uncover natural invention principles, similar to the approach taken in our recent study using the SDA method (Mas'udah et al, 2021). For instance, mangroves serve as a case study in this context (notwithstanding that mangroves are not the sole natural ecosystem applicable to specific problems in this study).…”

“…Lessons from nature have the potential to lead the way to sustainability. Nature-inspired principles have been proven to provide effective solutions to many engineering problems (Mas'udah et al, 2021). Several studies have explored the application of nature-inspired principles to innovation.…”

“…NICE has shown promise in addressing chemical engineering problems, but identifying the most appropriate bioresources for specific challenges remains a challenge. Similar to the NICE methodology, the implementation of eco-inventive principles identified in natural systems for process intensification outlined in (Mas'udah et al, 2021) reduces the environmental impact of current technologies. However, finding and adapting nature-inspired principles can be a time-consuming process, and misapplying these principles can lead to unintended consequences.…”