Thermodynamic Optimization of Finite Processes

The first book to provide a comprehensive treatment integratingfinite-time thermodynamics and optimal control, giving an overviewof important breakthroughs in the last 20 years.It presents a survey of the optimization technique, including thebasics of optimal control theory, and the principal thermodynamicconcepts and equations. In addition, it covers the solutions of avariety of finite-time thermodynamic problems, including coverageof their potential applications for the design of realtechnological processes, such as:* heat-exchange systems* mass transfer and separation processes* commodity exchange as a finite-time thermodynamic process* heat-driven mechanical processes with one or severalreservoirs.This is a key resource for chemical and mechanical engineersinvolved in power systems and process engineering. Researchers intheoretical, physical and industrial chemistry in academia and inindustry will also welcome this book for the fresh perspectivesthat offer new ways to design and analyze a wide variety ofprocesses.