Efficient generalized shortcut distillation model with improved accuracy for superstructure-based process synthesis

We propose a general shortcut distillation column model that can address a wide range of types of separations including nonsharp/sloppy splits. The model can automatically identify key components and estimate the energy requirement of a desired separation in the presence, potentially, of components with zero flow rates. To obtain more practical column height and vapor flow rates, we augment the model with constraints inspired by the Fenske equation. We also propose valid constraints to enhance the computational performance of the proposed model. Due to its flexibility and computational efficiency, the proposed model can be readily used for superstructure-based process synthesis.