Research progress of chemical process simulation technology

Chemical process simulation technology is a combination of chemical technology and information technology,which simulates chemical processes by the strict mathematical model on computer.It could obtain the optimal solution under many conditions,such as operational,economic,environmental,to provide theoretical support for real projects.Compared with the traditional experiments in laboratory,it saves a lot of manpower and material resources,and is popular among chemical engineers. However,there are many kinds of chemical process simulation softwares.They have different functions which used in different areas.This paper introduces the Aspen Plus and Hysys,Pro/Ⅱ,ChemCAD and gPROMS commonly used in process simulation.Their different functions and features are discussed and their applications in various processes are summarized.The process simulation technology should be focused on integration of connected processes in the future.Simulation is to be made at the plant level,enterprise level,and even in regional level,and provides technical support for comprehensive cleaner production of chemical industry.