Optimisation of batch plant design: mathematical models and algorithms for tactical decision support.

This research project focuses on the impact of supply chain strategy on the tactical design of multiproduct chemical batch plants. Tactical design covers plant configuration as well as equipment choice, number, size, as layout of the pipeline network. Although highly interwoven, past research barely integrates plant design and supply chain or production strategies. The aim of this research is to gradually develop a mathematical model and a heuristic solution method for this multi-objective plant design optimisation problem and to translate the results into comprehensive industrial decision support guidelines.

Keywords:OPERATIONS RESEARCH, OPERATIONS STRATEGY, METAHEURISTICS, OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT

Disciplines:Applied mathematics in specific fields, Statistics and numerical methods, Computer architecture and networks, Distributed computing, Information sciences, Information systems, Programming languages, Scientific computing, Theoretical computer science, Visual computing, Other information and computing sciences, Business administration and accounting, Economic development, innovation, technological change and growth, Management