A general framework and optimization models for the scheduling of continuous chemical processes

We present a framework for the formulation and solution of continuous process scheduling problems. We focus on modeling transient operations such as startups, shutdowns, and transitions between steady states. First, we show how the concept of processing tasks can be generalized to represent continuous processes, including their transient operations. Second, we discuss how to systematically calculate the parameters describing material consumption/production and utility consumption during transient operations. Finally, we present new mixed-integer linear programming formulations for the scheduling of continuous chemical production.