BIOpt: A library of models for optimization of biofuel production processes

In this paper we present the library of equation based models, BIOpt, for biofuel production processes that has been developed in GAMS using a number of approaches such as design of experiments, empirical correlations based on physical insight and/or parameter estimation, short cut models based on first principles or black box models using rules of thumb or experimental data. These are simple but efficient and reliable equation-based models that can be used in superstructure optimization, heat and water integration. We use such models for the systematic optimal process design of various biofuels from lignocellulosic raw materials, cooking oil and algae such as second generation of bioethanol, FT-diesel, hydrogen or biodiesel from algae or cooking oil resulting in reduced energy and water consumption establishing benchmarks for biomass to fuel production processes.