Applications of multiobjective optimization in chemical engineering

Multiobjective optimization involves the simultaneous optimization of more than one objective function. This is quite commonly encountered in Chemical Engineering. A considerable amount of research has been reported in this area over the last twenty years. This is reviewed in the present paper. The general background of this area is presented at the beginning, followed by a description of how the results can be described in terms of Pareto sets. We then present the several methods available for generating these optimal solutions. Applications of optimization in Chemical Engineering wherein multiple objectives are encountered, as well as special adaptations of the basic algorithms required to solve these problems, are then discussed. Some comments are also made on possible directions that future research may take in this area.