A multi-objective mathematical programming framework for a sustainability analysis of wastewater treatment processes
by Omar Romero-Hernandez, Antonin Ponsich, Sergio Romero Hernandez, Miguel De Lascurain, Jose Aquino
International Journal of Environmental Policy and Decision Making (IJEPDM), Vol. 1, No. 1, 2010

Abstract: Industrial processes are gradually becoming more efficient as new designs consider the effect on costs and environmental impacts and costs. However, decisions on operating costs might not always be in hand with lower environmental impacts. Therefore, innovative approaches are needed to better understand and recognise the economic and environmental effects of industrial processes. This paper presents a multi-objective mathematical programming framework for a sustainability analysis of two wastewater treatment processes: pervaporation (PERV) and steam stripping (SS). The framework comprises mass and energy balances, design specifications, equipment size and utilities consumption. In addition, the framework makes use of life cycle approaches to quantify the environmental impact of the process under a holistic perspective. As a result, optimal operating conditions, at which environmental impact and treatment cost are minimised, have been identified. The multi-objective operating curves developed as part of this paper serve as a basis for decision making geared towards sustainable process designs.

Online publication date: Sat, 03-Jul-2010

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Environmental Policy and Decision Making (IJEPDM):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

    Username:        Password:         

Forgotten your password?


Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com