Here are some potential solutions to optimize industrial processes to produce higher yields at lower cost:
1. Use a catalyst. Adding a catalyst can lower the activation energy of the reaction, allowing it to proceed at a faster rate even at lower temperatures and pressures. This reduces energy costs while maintaining or increasing product yields.
2. Improve reactor design. Advanced reactor designs that improve heat and mass transfer can allow reactions to reach optimum conditions more efficiently. Examples include continuous flow reactors, microreactors, and reactive distillation columns.
3. Employ process intensification techniques. Methods like ultrasound, microwave irradiation, and supercritical fluid processing can accelerate reaction kinetics, reducing processing time. Some also allow operation at lower temperatures and pressures.