Modeling, Simulation and Optimization of Integrated Milk Pasteurization and Membrane Filtration Processes
Chemical Engineering Diploma Thesis
Author: Athina Bampzeli
Supervisor: Professor Michael Georgiadis
Institution: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
This thesis presents a dynamic, integrated process design and simulation framework for the pasteurization and membrane filtration sections of a dairy plant producing milk powder. The aim is to evaluate how key physicochemical and biological phenomena such as protein denaturation, fouling, enzyme inactivation, and microbial growth affect process conditions, product quality, cleaning requirements, and utility consumption. Three process models are developed using the gPROMS™ FormulatedProducts platform to compare the performance of separate pasteurization and membrane filtration models with that of an integrated configuration. Global System Analyses are applied to capture interactions among key process variables and quantify variability under parameter uncertainty. Optimization is performed first for individual process stages and then for the integrated system. Stage-level optimization suggests a pasteurization temperature of 72 °C (High Temperature Short Time method) and allocation of 100% of diafiltration water to the third membrane stage, resulting in 53% and 40% reductions in heating and diafiltration water usage, respectively. However, optimization of the integrated process achieves an additional 13% increase in profit, demonstrating the benefits of a holistic, system-level approach to dairy process design and optimization.
| File | Language | Description |
|---|---|---|
Diploma_Thesis_Athina_Bampzeli.pdf |
English | Thesis text |