Designing energy-efficient thermal and separation processes for sustainable production

 

We focus on the development and optimization of thermal and separation technologies that form the backbone of many chemical and biochemical production systems. Our research spans reactive flow modeling, thermal‐intensive unit operations such as rectification, absorption, membrane‐based separations, and high‐temperature process environments. Using advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD), process simulation and multi-parameter experimental studies, we examine flow and transport phenomena, reaction behaviour, and heat‐integration strategies. By applying life-cycle thinking and energy‐pinch techniques, we aim to design processes that minimise energy consumption and environmental footprint.

We leverage our expertise in both modelling and experimentation to bridge the gap between conceptual design and industrial implementation. Through collaborations with industry and research partners, we validate new process layouts and separation technologies—such as gas purification, biorefinery integration and intensified heat‐exchange systems—under realistic conditions. Our aim is to develop scalable solutions that reduce cost, increase sustainability, and support the transition to low-carbon production systems.

E166-02-1 - Sustainable Technologies and Process Simulation

Group picture

© Sebastian Philipp

Our research group uses process simulation and Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) to study unit operations and complex processes, generating mass, energy, and exergy balances to support design, optimisation, and scale-up. Combining industrial tools with in-house methods, experiments, and advanced thermodynamic modelling (COSMOtherm), we enable sustainability and techno-economic assessment across biorefinery, chemical, and metallurgical systems.

E166-02-2 - Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

Gruppenphoto

© Sebastian Philipp

We explore separation and biorefinery processes through advanced simulation and experimental validation. Our research covers membrane and electrochemical separations, thermochemical conversion, cascaded utilization pathways for biomass, gas separation, green hydrogen technologies and process intensification, integrating chemical kinetics with transport phenomena. By linking modeling with practical insights, we evaluate performance, efficiency, and environmental impact under realistic conditions and contribute to scale-up. Our work supports the development of sustainable energy and chemical systems for a low-carbon, circular future.