Reliable accurate models of chemical processes allow one to
optimize operating conditions thus minimizing operational costs.
Attempts to develop such models include those that are based
basic principles and those that are data-based using input/output
plant data. Models based on detailed mass and energy balance
equations proved to be very complicated and hard to solve especially
when coupled with optimization computer routines.Available commercial simulation softwares that are not opensourcecan be used to perform accurate simulations, however coupling
them with optimization procedures is a difficult task to manage.Moreover, the proprietary nature of these softwares is another discouragement to their industrial application.