On interactive multiobjective optimization with NIMBUS® in chemical process design

We study multiobjective optimization problems arising from chemical process simulation. The interactive multiobjective optimization method NIMBUS®, developed at the University of Jyväskylä, is combined with the BALAS® process simulator, developed at the VTT Technical Research Center of Finland, in order to provide a new interactive tool for designing chemical processes. Continuous interaction between the method and the designer provides a new efficient approach to explore Pareto optimal solutions and helps the designer to learn about the behaviour of the process. As an example of how the new tool can be used, we report the results of applying it in a heat recovery system design problem related to the process water system of a paper mill.