Process Intensification in Catalysis

Abstract

Intensification of chemical (and/or physical) processes (PI) leads to higher efficiency in smaller equipment, better quality from more robust and flexible processes, as well as cost reduction with increased safety. These goals are very ambitious and need a complete toolbox of measures on all relevant length scales, from molecules to chemical plants, together with appropriate methods. Catalysis should facilitate, accelerate, and direct chemical transformations for enhanced conversion and selectivity, while improved transport processes and energy supply provide comparable process conditions for each molecule. Novel energy logistics assists chemical transformations as well as molecular and convective transport, while integration of various operations generates new opportunities for chemical production processes. Catalysis and process intensification are an intrinsically tied couple for sustainable and green chemistry and engineering.