Process Modelling and Simulation with Finite Element Methods

Book excerpt: This book presents a systematic description and case studies of chemical engineering modelling and simulation based on the MATLAB/FEMLAB tools, in support of selected topics in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that require numerical solution of complex balance equations (ordinary differential equations, partial differential equations, nonlinear equations, integro-differential equations). These systems arise naturally in analysis of transport phenomena, process systems, chemical reactions and chemical thermodynamics, and particle rate processes. Templates are given for modelling both state-of-the-art research topics (e.g. microfluidic networks, film drying, multiphase flow, population balance equations) and case studies of commonplace design calculations -- mixed phase reactor design, heat transfer, flowsheet analysis of unit operations, flash distillations, etc. The great strength of this book is that it makes modelling and simulating in the MATLAB/FEMLAB environment approachable to both the novice and the expert modeller.