Ongoing M.Sc. Thesis
Asya Bornazzini, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), A. A. Kiss (TU Delft, NL); Starting period: September 2020; Type: M.Sc.
Joint thesis Politecnico di Milano and Technical University of Delft. Development of conceptual process design for converting biogas streams into methanol and dimethyl ether basing on the BIGSQUID(TM) (biogas-to-liquid(TM)) and RECS(TM) (film catalytic reactor) technologies. Process simulation, process optimization, techno-economic assessment.
Andrea Lorenzo Tomaselli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: June 2020; Type: M.Sc.
Surrogate modeling is the best practice to sketch out a model correlating process parameters in all those cases where a detailed physical model is not available or it is really complex and computationally demanding. There are some applications, such as Model Predictive Control philosophy, where the model is nevertheless necessary. The purpose of this thesis work is then to take advantage of surrogate modeling in order to design an MPC loop and to compare it with the rigorous model behaviour in order to test its robustness.
Valentina Chiari, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), L. Montastruc (University of Toulouse, FR), A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: March 2020; Type: M.Sc.
This joint thesis work deals with biorefinery processes characterization via surrogate modeling. The study will be carried out based on a detailed biorefinery process simulation by means of the SUMO Matlab toolbox.
Former M.Sc. Students
Stefano Apruzzese and Davide Fratelli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti , F. Bisotti , A. Galeazzi (Politecnico di Milano, IT); Ing. F. Gallo (Itelyum, IT); Starting period: Dicember 2019; Degree: December 2020; Type: M.Sc.)
Data Reconciliation and Dynamic Data Reconciliation framework development. The thesis mainly deals with numerical techniques and strategy for data reconciliation both at steady-state and dynamic condition. Traditional and new numerical strategy for dynamic data reconciliation will be proposed. The developed framework will be applied on industrial plant (amines washing in exhaust oil recovery refinery)
Veronica Gallo and Martina Cauteruccio, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, F. Bisotti, M. Fedeli (Politecnico di Milano) Starting period: February 2020; Degree: December 2020; Type: M.Sc.
Techno-economical study on reactor for methanol synthesis from biomass at middle-low pressure. The study is mainly focused on the kinetic mechanism involved in CO and CO2 conversion into methanol. Before conceptual reactor design, different kinetic models will be analyzed and the most promising one will be refitted for production of methanol at low-middle pressure (20-60 bar). Finally, technical feasibility and economic analysis on the new reactor technology will be performed.
Giordano Marconi and Claudio Massa, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti , A. Dell’Angelo (Politecnico di Milano, IT), G. Piccioni (ITT SpA); Starting period: Febraury 2020; Degree: December 2020;Type: M.Sc.
New techniques for the H2S conversion into hydrogen and elemental sulfur will be studied. The students will support experimental activities, will estimate kinetics according to the experimental data and will implement kinetics at the process scale to perform techno-economic assessment.
Gianluca Montonati, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), S. Mansouri (DTU, Denmark); Starting period: March 2020; Degree: December 2020; Type: M.Sc.
Application of Molecular Tracking for rigorous design methodology for Davide-Wall Column (DWC): theoretical framework, validation on case studies and economic evaluation.
Data-driven Machine Learning for large industrial processes in production plant.
Jeremy Kleiman, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: October 2019; Degree: October 2020; Type: M.Sc.
The activity deals with the development of a dedicated process dynamic simulation and control of the reforming furnace and methanol reactor section of a BIoGaS to liQUID(TM) (BIG SQUID(TM)) plant. The BIG SQUID is a technology developed by SuPER Centre, Politecnico di Milano, for the conversion of biogas into advanced biofuels. The study will specifically target the reactors automatic cold start-up procedure with a special focus on the system stability and response to upstream disturbances.
Vitor Mauricio Lacerda, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: January 2019; Degree: October 2020; Type: M.Sc.
Water-Butanol azeotropic distillation is a deeply studied and well-established process in the chemical industry. Related studies usually deal with steady state optimal design under nominal operating conditions. This thesis is then aimed to analyze the system dynamic behavior and optimal control configuration as well as the optimal design under uncertain operating conditions.
Andrea Panico and Mariachiara Steffanini, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti , A. Dell’Angelo (Politecnico di Milano, IT), G. Piccioni (ITT SpA); Starting period: August 2019; Degree: July 2020; Type: M.Sc.
New techniques for the H2S and CO2 into valuable products. The students will estimate reduced kinetics scheme according to the experimental and industrial data for Sulfur Recovery Unit and will validate and implement it at the process scale.
Flavia Ciranna and Matteo Fedeli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: February 2019; Degree: April 2020; Type: M.Sc.
Process integration is a powerful tool for energy optimization. Its profitability has nevertheless been proved under a given set of operating conditions, i.e. if perturbations are present it can be seriously endangered. A flexibility analysis of a Dividing Wall Column for an ABE separation process will be then performed and coupled with the plant economic assessment in order to evaluate the feasibility boundaries as well as the additional costs required for a more flexible system.
Francesco D’Iglio, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: March 2019; Degree: April 2020; Type: M.Sc.
Heat exchangers cleaning cycles scheduling will be studied in deep and a general procedure will be defined. Flexibility assessment of heat exchangers network will be performed as well and the cleaning cycles will be rescheduled by mean of an economics & flexibility based multi-objective optimization.
Andrea Galeazzi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), C. Pirola, L. Verrotta (Università degli Studi di Milano, IT), F. Rossi (Purdue University, USA); Starting period: October 2018; Degree: April 2020 Type: M.Sc.
Development of advanced IT tools for design of experiments based on first-principles models. Application to existing plant for extraction of high-added value products using CO2 Supercritical streams. The program is funded by Fondazione CARIPLO.
Santiago Morandi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), F. Logist (BASF Antwerpen, BE); Starting period: Feb 2018; Degree: December 2019; Type: External Industrial thesis
Application of Nonlinear Model Predictive Control (NMPC) algorithm to industrial unit operations.
Kristina Bakoc, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), A. Di
Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: October 2018; Degree: Dec 2019; Type: M.Sc.
Modelling and dynamic simulation of a batch lyophilization case study will be implemented. Different control strategies will be tested and compared in order to evaluate how optimal control could enhance system performances with respect to standard controllers.
Vittorio Lorenzin and Riccardo Moise, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti , A. Dell’Angelo (Politecnico di Milano, IT), V. Baldo (Viscolube SpA, IT); Starting period: October 2018; Degree: Dec 2019; Type: M.Sc.
Process feasibility study for the revamping of the existing Sulphur Recovery Unit into Acid Gas to Syngas(TM) (AG2S(TM)) technology. The thesis will account for real data and morphology of the existing units and will develop a techno-economic assessment for plant refurbishing.
Pauli Johanna Giraldo Morales, Chemical/Process Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: July 2018; Degree: Dec 2019; Type: M.Sc.
The activity deals with the development of process dynamic simulation and plant-wide process control of a BIoGaS to liQUID(TM) (BIG SQUID(TM)) plant. The BIG SQUID is a technology developed by SuPER Centre, Politecnico di Milano, for the conversion of biogas into advanced biofuels. The study will specifically target the definition of the automatic cold start-up procedure of a 0.2 MWe equivalent biogas plant. Special focus will be given to the operation management in upset conditions.
Sergio Porcelli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, M. Illner (TU Berlin); Staring period: Dec 2018; Degree: Dec 2019; Type: M.Sc.
Modeling and simulation of chemical plants, implementation of design of experimental planning.
Luca Baggio, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT),A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: October 2018; Degree: Oct 2019; Type: M.Sc.
Dynamic modeling and simulation of a bench plant distillation column located in University of Milano Statale with DYNSIM® process simulator.
Carlo Valli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, S. Skogestad; Starting period: Nov 2018; Degree: Oct 2019; Type: M.Sc in collaboration with NTNU TRONDHEIM.
Implementation of novel techniques for nonlinear model predictive control. Application to the multi-wells natural gas field extraction in Northern Sea.
Luca Galatioto, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), F. Bisotti (Politecnico di Milano), F. Masserdotti (SIAD Macchine & Impianti); Starting period: October 2018; Degree: October 2019; Type: M.Sc.
Development of advanced thermodynamic models and numerical tools in a dinamic link library (DLL) to interface in simulation environment (Aspen Hysys 10) for ASU plants.
Palomba Leonardo and Kristiano Prifti, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), V. Baldo (Viscolube SpA, IT); Starting period: October 2018; Degree: October 2019; Type: M.Sc.
Steady-state and dynamic simulation of the deasphalting process for the recovery of exhausted oils. The thesis activity will deal with the data acquisition, data reconciliation and process simulation of an existing plant placed in Pieve Fissiraga (LO).
Edgar Camilo Galvis Pacheco, Chemical/Process Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: September 2018; Degree: October 2019; Type: M.Sc.
Dynamic simulation of an ABE/W separation plant and plantwide control configurations comparison will be performed by mean of dedicated .dll recoded in DYNSIM process simulator. Startup and shutdown procedures as well as sensitivity test will be conducted in order to validate the selected design.
Giulia Ferri, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), G.Leonard (Universite Libre de Liege, BE); Starting period: March 2018; Degree: April 2019; Type: Double M.Sc.
“Power-to-Fuel” is a process for generating fuels from CO2, which is produced as a waste in industrial and power plants. Oxygen (O2) and hydrogen (H2) are made through electrolysis of water by using the excess electricity from renewable energies. Hydrogen and carbon dioxide then become the initial gases for both the production of methane and/or methanol as well as other high-grade products. The thesis work is focused on the design of the methanol production unit.
Valerio Lorenzo Muci, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), L. Montastruc (University of Toulouse, FR), A. Di Pretoro (Politecnico di Milano, IT; University of Toulouse, FR); Starting period: Feb 2018; Degree: April 2019; Type: M.Sc.
It is not unusual for process simulation to have discontinuous points on its feasible domain or for an experimental set of data the impossibility of being collected under certain operating conditions. In this cases surrogate modeilng helps us to find a reliable value for the desired condition and to analytically express the model function.
On a heat exchanger network case study a superstructure optimization is performed by using the ALAMO software and then numerical results and surrogate model ones are compared to assess the methodology reliability.
Giorgio Colombo, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano), K. (DTU), S. S. Mansouri (DTU); Starting period: November 2017; Degree: December 2018; Type: M.Sc.
Application of Computer Aided Process Engineering (CAPE)frameworks to the Bio-Based Industry (BBI) processes. Specific focus on fermentation processes in the pharma area. Techno-economic pre-feasibility study.
Davide Renda, Alta Scuola Politecnica, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, D. Fino (Politecnico di Torino); Starting period: July 2017; Degree: December 2018; Type: M.Sc.
Application of AG2S technology to the coal utilization and cement production. Greener uses of coal for syngas production and chemical synthesis; greener production of lime.
Davide Colombi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), D. Previtali (Politecnico di Milano, IT); Starting period: November 2017; Degree: December 2018; Type: M.Sc.
Development of a dedicated algorithm for the estimation of investment costs (CAPEX) to be coupled with a process simulator. The aim of this thesis work is to use this algorithm to run an optimization of both CAPEX and OPEX for some processes, and compare the results with the ones obtained by an optimization of OPEX only. A reduction of total costs is expected. Practical tests are expected on the BIG SQUID(TM) technology layout.
Walaa Bashary, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: S. Colombo, W. R. Poganietz (ITAS, Karlsruhe Institute of Technologies); Degree: Dec 2018. Type: M.Sc.
Development of a quantitative risk engineering approach, based on the HoRAM method, to support the selection of strategic raw materials for Germany’s energy transition.
Mattia Galavotti, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: S. Colombo, A. Mazzù (Arkema); Degree: Dec 2018. Type: B.Sc.
Development of a quantitative approach, based on the HoRAM method, to engineering the risk associated with the Job Safety Analysis (JSA) while keeping the same readibility of the well known, videly used matrix approach.
Nicolò Milesi, Luca Monzio Compagnoni, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, M. Rota (SIAD Macchine Impianti); Degree: Dec 2018. Type: B.Sc.
Attività di revisione dei documenti di sicurezza impiantistica/processistica presso i siti produttivi aziendali. Caratterizzazione dei principali indici di affidabilità e sicurezza.
Mattia R. Fogli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti (Politecnico di Milano, IT), F. Logist and M. Vallerio (BASF Antwerpen, BE); Starting period: Oct 2017; Degree: October 2018; Type: External Industrial thesis
Application of Nonlinear Model Predictive Control (NMPC) algorithm to industrial unit operations.
Giulio Boni, Matteo Scaccabarozzi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: G. Bozzano; Starting period: Jul 2017; Degree: July 2018; Type: M.Sc.
Development of a dedicated software for the simulation of a lab and industrial reactor for methanol production. It is also foreseen the elaboration of kinetic data obtained in our laboratories. The thesis is mainly related to the modeling of the reactor, the programming in MS VC++, and with the comparison with experimental data. The focus is also on mixtures of CO2 and H2 that could come from biomass treatment.
Stefano Valsecchi, Roberto Caruso, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Rossi, F. Manenti; Degree: Apr 2018. Type: M.Sc.
Application of the Robust Simultaneous Batch Optimization & Control (RSBO&C) algortihm to domestic use.
Stefano Zanfini, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: C. Pirola, G. Bozzano; Degree: Apr 2018. Type: M.Sc.
Experimental and modeling study of enriched air production process from water degassing. Application to an industrial case in the field of oil refineries. Application to combustion engines in the naval field.
Luca Nodari, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, F. Ruggeri (Amec Foster-Wheeler); Starting period: Jan 2017. Type: M.Sc.
Dynamic simulation of a Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG) plant with further integration with AG2S technology. Main scope of the work is to study the dynamic behaviour of a methanation plant to produce SNG. Special focus is gives on the thermal and control aspects. In addition, a conceptual design to integrate the AG2S technology will be accomplished to assess feasibility and potential.
Cristian Biagini, Food Engineering, Supervisor: L. Piazza, F. Manenti; Starting period: Sep 2016. Type: M.Sc.
Study of cold plasma technology applications and effects on the fresh cut salads production processes. Special enphasys on the microbial content and the shelf life. Pressure, vaccum and ambient pressure technologies are compared.
Riccardo Fossati, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: A. Bassani, F. Manenti; Starting period: Sep 2016. Type: M.Sc.
Acid Gas to Syngas technology: interface between AspenHysys, Matlab and C++ to connect the Regenerative Thermal Reactor to the rest of process layout. Overall integrated process optimization including DSMOKE and BZZMATH library.
Ayoub El-Ziani, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, E. Ranzi; Starting period: Oct 2016. Type: M.Sc.
Acid Gas to Syngas technology: refinement of the kinetic scheme for the oxy-reduction conversion of H2S and CO2. Study of the pyrolysis mechanisms and oxydation mechanisms involving species with C H O N and S elements typically present in tail streams.
Luca Busetto, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, S. Macchietto (ICL, UK), M. Rovaglio (Schneider-Electric, USA); Starting period: March 2017. Type: M.Sc.
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Paola Roncareggi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, F. Rossi (Purdue University, USA), D. Bogle (UCL, UK); Starting period: March 2017. Type: M.Sc.
Joint thesis between Politecnico di Milano and University College London on the global optimization of industrial plants using innovative techniques.
Alessandro Di Pretoro, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, G. Bozzano; Degree: Jul 2017. Type: M.Sc.
The thesis work deals with the dynamic simulation of ABEW (Acetone, butanol, ethanol, water) downstream separation process with the aim of validating the optimal layout already studied in the previous thesis work by Alessandro Boffa. The thesis enters the activities of the Green Chemistry National Cluster and specifically it relates to the Task 5.3 of the LIDIA (LIgnocellulosic DIcarbissilic Acids) Project.
Alberto Zanini, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: M.C. Rulli, E. Moioli, F. Manenti; Starting period: Oct 2016. Type: M.Sc.
Modeling of Nexus index for water, energy, land uses. Comparison of energy sources including nuclear, biomass, fossil, and renewables. The nexus index is estimated including also the Acid Gas to Syngas (AG2S) technology and the impact on CO2 mitigation.
Alessandra Rota, Industrial Chemistry, Supervisor: C. Pirola; Starting period: Sep 2016. Type: M.Sc.
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Marco Ronchi, Industrial Chemistry, Supervisor: C. Pirola, G. Bozzano, F. Manenti, D. Previtali; Starting period: Oct 2016. Type: M.Sc.
The thesis deals with the COWBOY project, which consists with the conversion of cheese waste into added-value chemicals. Specifically, a pilot plant for the direct conversion of the mixture H”/CO2 deriving from dark fermentation of the cheese wastes is engineered, built, and operated. Different conditions and catalysts are tested during the thesis.
Federico Sacco, Industrial Chemistry, Supervisor: C. Pirola; Starting period: Sep 2016. Type: M.Sc.
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Cristiano Maesani, Industrial Chemistry, Supervisor: C. Pirola; Starting period: Sep 2016. Type: M.Sc.
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Giulia Locatelli, Industrial Chemistry, Supervisor: C. Pirola; Starting period: Sep 2016. Type: M.Sc.
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Stefano Ghezzi and Giulio Iannace, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: G. Bozzano, F. Manenti, A. Vita, A. Furtado Amaral; Starting period: Sep 2016. Type: M.Sc.
The activity deals with the development of a new concept of CHPC plant (Combined Heat, Power and Chemicals) for the synthesis of methanol from biogas. The basic stream will include the recovery of biomass (animal slurry, agri-food residues…) by means of biogas plant and to generate syngas using trireforming technology.
Riccardo Brazzoli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, E. Maggio (Sotacarbo SpA), C. Frau (Sotacarbo SpA); Starting period: June 2016. Type: M.Sc.
The thesis activity deals with the simulation and optimization of a novel process to convert flue gases and, in general, effluents of power generation plants, into sulphuric acid market grade. The thesis is in cooperation with Sotacarbo SpA where the demonstrative plant is operated.
Filandro Amoroso, Chemical & Safety Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, S. Colombo; Starting period: Jan 2016. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with Technische Univeraitaet Berlin
Development of 3-D solution for educational purposes. The case of AG2S(TM) (Acid Gas to Syngas(TM)) technology for CO2 reuse.
Luca Vanalli, Riccardo Del Maso, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, Starting period: Oct 2015. Type: M.Sc. on FONDAZIONE CARIPLO’s project
The thesis deals with the industrial feasibility study of a biomass-to-liquid process starting from different second generation biomasses available in the Mantova Province. The biomass is characterized in dedicated facilities and it represents the feedstock for a thermal treatment modeled using the GasDS/FloGA tool, based on detailed kinetics, and the new catalysts for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis are investigated at the process simulation scale. The thesis will provide an economic assessment of such a technology for the integrated biorefinery concept at the Mantova Chemical District according to the guidelines of the BioMAN Project (Fondazione CARIPLO).
Margherita Gazzo, Food Engineering, Supervisor: S. Pierucci; Starting date: Oct-2015. Area: Food Cooking Modeling and Simulation. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with FONDAZIONE MACH.
The thesis activity is an official GAIA (Gruppo per l’Alimnatazione e l’Ingegneria Alimentare) dealing with the prediction of formation/inhibition of chemical species during the cooking treatment in traditional ovens of non-elemental food matrices.
Enrico Iannace, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, I. M. Mujtaba; Starting date: Oct-2015. Area: Gasification of urban solid wastes. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD
The M.Sc. thesis addresses the multiscale simulation of gasification processes with different solid fuels. The study is then combined with the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis for the production of liquid fuels. The University of Bradford (UK) hosting the student is mainly interested in applying the tools developed at the SuPER group to value the organic fraction of urban wastes.
Mattia Vizzi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: A. Citterio, F. Manenti, A. Rosengart; Starting period: Oct 2015. Type: M.Sc.
Due to the inner complexity of the traditional adipic acid process, the uncertainty of oil price and new severe environmental legislation, the possibility to produce adipic acid in a green way has become a strategic issue for industries. Recent publications have disclosed new routes for renewable adipic acid production from glucose, passing through muconic acid as an intermediate; the future availability of low cost glucose sources from waste biomass make the scenario of a ‘green adipic acid’ even more realistic. The simulation withPRO/II of a full scale process for the catalytic hydrogenation of muconic acid to adipic acidwill allow toevaluate the industrial feasibility of this reaction, which is thought to be the bottleneck of the entire production process. The project will be carried out in collaboration with the chemical laboratory of ‘green chemistry and proteomics’ of prof. Citterio, where the experimental kinetics and thermodynamic data of the reaction are being studied.
Fabio Cecchetto, Process Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, A. Bassani, L. Molinari (Tecnimont-KT) Starting period: Oct 2015. Type: M.Sc.
Basic engineering of new Claus process basing on the patented technology of the SuPER team and the available data (SOTACARBO SpA) and REACH2-LAB. Integration of tools in VMGsim package.
Daniele Previtali, Industrial Chemistry, Supervisor: C. Pirola, F. Manenti, A. Bassani; Starting period: Oct 2015. Type: M.Sc.
REACH2-LAB (REcycling ACid gas to H2-LABoratory). The thesis activity deals with the development, tuning and exercises of the new laboratory REACH2-LAB to test and optimize the technology of converting H2S and CO2 to syngas patented by the group and to generate basic process engineering, layouts, and licensing activities.
Armand Karaj, Process Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, G. Bozzano, Starting period: Oct 2015. Type: M.Sc.
The activity deals with the development of a CO2-free methanol synthesis process based on novel technologies developed by the SuPER team.
Jodie Pedroncelli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, G. Bozzano, G. Dotelli, A. Vita (CNR-ITAE), Starting period: Apr 2015. Type: M.Sc.
The activity deals with the development of a new concept of CHPC plant (Combined Heat, Power and Chemicals) for the integration of biogas and biorefinery concept. The basic stream will include the recovery of biomass (animal slurry, agri-food residues…) by means of biogas plant and to generate syngas using trireforming technology. The syngas will be used to generate energy and chemicals with high efficiency.
Alberto Orsi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti and R. Gani, Starting period: Mar 2015. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with DENMARK TU
The thesis activity deals with the model-based supoerstructure optimization of biorefinery layouts. Specifically, the use of mixed-integer nonlinear programming techniques allows to compare and investugate different process line-ups and to select the best one according to different optimization targets. Water utilization, carbon footprint, and energy saving are some of the keywords. DTU at Lyngby (Kobenhaven) is leader university in discrete optimization.
Anna Sofia Santini, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti and C. Pirola, Starting period: Mar 2015. Type: M.Sc. on FONDAZIONE CARIPLO’s project
Anna Sofia studies the industrial feasibility of the bio-remediation of the Chemical District of Mantova. The aim is to make a rational database of seasonal biomass, analytical characterization and modeling studies for biomass treatment. Then, the goal of the thesis is to carry out the integrated simulation study of supply chain for biomass transportation, conversion processes (extraction, fermentation, thermal treatment and separation), and existing units at the Mantova site. The project deserved the attention of Fondazione CARIPLO.
Alessandro Giorgi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: S. Pierucci, F. Manenti, D. Papasidero, Starting period: Mar 2015. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with WAGENINGEN UNIVERSITY
It is not difficult to foresee that in the next future food engineering and chemical engineering will deeply merge into one single area. The need to understand the physical and chemical transformations of food during the cooking is becoming mandatory to emphasize some markers as well as to reduce or zeroing some molecules dangerous for health. Alessandro studies the chemical transformations of the food with a dedicated laboratory at Universita’ degli Studi di Milano and with the direct support of Wageningen University (NL).
Marco Fontana, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, A. Bassani and E. Ranzi, Degree: 27-Apr-2016. Type: M.Sc.
The thesis deals with the multi-scale modeling of the oxidative-reduction reaction of H2S and CO2 to produce synthesis gas (CO and H2). The thesis is specifically focus on the development and tuning of detailed kinetic scheme for the abovementioned reaction as well as to the definition of a new process layout for sulfur recovery units and co-production of synthesis gas.
Daniela Geraci, Chemical Engineering, Joint Thesis with Mossi and Ghisolfi Group, Supervisor: F. Manenti, M. Corbetta, Degree: 27-Apr-2016. Type: M.Sc in collaboration with BIOCHEMTEX
The thesis is aimed at studying the non-conventional Thin Film Evaporator. First-pronciples modeling and optimization of the unit are the base for the reliable process simulation of bioprocesses. Specifically, the GREG (GReen Ethylene Glycol) process owned by Biochemtex (Mossi and Ghisolfi Group) is the target. The simulation deals with the integrated use of programming languages, commercial packages for process simulation, and CFD codes. SuPER Team target: add a unit operation model to the BIOprocess MOdel LIBrary.
Enea Polonini, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, C. Pirola, M. Hillestad, Degree: 27-Apr-2016. Type: M.Sc in collaboration with NTNU TRONDHEIM.
Fischer-Tropsch Reactor Modeling and Design.
Paolo Fraquelli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, C. Pirola, M. Corbetta, Degree: 20-Dec-2015. Code: CP14-04. Area: Energy. Type: M.Sc.
The thesis activity is part of the project BIOREFILL (BIOREFinery Integrated Lombardy Labs) funded by Regione Lombardia and Fondazione CARIPLO. It is focused on the industrial feasibility study and experimental validation of a novel low-pressure technology for the upgrading of biogas to biomethane. The packed column for experimentation and the tools for simulation and optimization are already available and operating at the SuPER team facilities.
Alessandro Boffa,Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, M. Corbetta; Degree: 20-Dec-2015. Area: Conceptual design of the downstream of bioprocesses. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with BIOCHEMTEX
The M.Sc. thesis addresses the multiscale modeling and simulation of the downstream operations in the ABE (Acetone-Butanol-Ethanol) fermentation bioprocess. The thesis activity is a key-stone of the National Cluster Green Chemistry (LIDIA project).
Marco Stefano, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti and F. Rossi, Degree: 20-Dec-2015. Type: M.Sc in collaboration with UNIVERSITA’ DELL’INSUBRIA
Marco’s activity is amied at investigating the potential benefits coming from the application of nonlinear model predictive techniques to batch reactors subject to runaway behavior.
Andrea Dorelli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: G. Bozzano; Degree: 30-Sep-2015. Code: GB14-01. Area: Chemical Engineering. Type: M.Sc.
First-principles modeling of coalescence of droplets based on experimental observation and Bozzano-Dente’s theory.
Marco Galimberti, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, C. Pirola, M. Hillestad; Degree: 30-Sep-2015. Area: Energy and Fuels. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with NTNU, TRONDHEIM
Fischer-Tropsch reaction is conducted in a proper bench scale reactor. Innovative catalytic samples (cobalt or iron based) are tested in terms of CO conversion and hydrocarbon yield. Recently the start-up of a new slurry reactor has been carried out, in order to compare the results obtained with a different reactor configuration. The experimental results are the basis for the development of the complex kinetic models.
Simone Cane, Industrial Chemistry, Supervisor: C. Pirola, Degree: 15-Jul-2015. M.Sc.
Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, preparation of new catalysts and plant experimental data.
Marco Franchi,Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, M. Corbetta; Starting date: Oct-2014. Area: Gasification of solid fuels. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD
The M.Sc. thesis addresses the multiscale simulation of gasification processes with different solid fuels. The study is then combined with the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis for the production of liquid fuels. The University of Bradford (UK) hosting the student is mainly interested in applying the tools developed at the SuPER group to value the organic fraction of urban wastes.
Riccardo Ratti, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti and E. M. Speelmanns; Degree: 28-Jul-2015. Type: M.Sc in collaboration with TU BERLIN
Within the collaboration between Politecnico di Milano and Technische Universitat Berlin, this thesis activity is focused on the development of catalytic models for packed bed reactors converting organo-sulfur compounds. The coupling of multi-scale modeling and miniplant technology is the base of the work.
Domenico Orlando, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti and S. Fillinger; Degree: 28-Jul-2015. Type: M.Sc in collaboration with TU BERLIN
Within the collaboration between Politecnico di Milano and Technische Universitat Berlin, this thesis activity is focused on the implementation of models and methodologies for the design of distillation columns. The use of the promising MOSAIC platform and robust solvers of BzzMath library are the foundation of the work.
Martina Floriani, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti and P. Taqueda; Degree: 28-Jul-2015. Type: M.Sc in collaboration with UNIVERSITY OF SAO PAULO
The thesis deals with the experimental campaign and modeling of biogas processes. Comparison of different technologies and economical assessment is the ultimate goal of the work.
Emiliano Pizzi and Giacomo Ferrari. Automation Engineering. Supervisors: F. Manenti, M. Farina; Degree: 18-Dec-2013. Area: Natural Gas. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with AUTOMATION DEPT:
The thesis project deals with the development implementation and comparison of different techniques for model predictive control. Such techniques are implemented in Matlab and C++ and interfaced with the commercial dynamic simulator DYNSIM to assess their performances on an existing natual gas processing plant.
Mattia Sari,Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, C. Pirola, M. Corbetta, F. Galli; Degree:18-Dec-2014. Area: Downstream process. Type: M.Sc.
The M.Sc. thesis addresses the azeotropic distillation modeling and optimal design for the separation of water/acetic-acid mixtures, using p-xylene as entrainer. Nonlinear regression of binary interaction parameters for both VLE and VLLE of the water/acetic-acid/p-xylene system is the first step for the development of a reliable thermodynamic model. Moving from phase equilibria towards the process scale, robust optimizers are employed to design the azeotropic distillation column by minimizing total annual costs.
Andrea Crippa and Raul Vezzulli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: L. Capelli, F. Gallo and F. Manenti, Degree: 18-Dec-2014, Area: Refinery. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with Viscolube
The thesis deals with the definition of methodologies and procedures for the revamping of chemical/industrial plants. The use of detailed kinetic and reactor models support the revamping activities. The selected industrial site is the Claus process currently operating at the site of Viscolube SpA in Lodi. The thesis is also relevant for the industrial validation of existing models.
Emanuele Moioli, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti and C. Rulli, Degree: 22-Oct-2014, Area: Process Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with ALTA SCUOLA POLITECNICA, DEPT. DICA of POLITECNICO DI MILANO
This thesis faced for the first time the nexus energy-water-land-food searching for specific performance indexes for the countries according
Simone Albertini and Andrea Fratus, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti and R. Meloni, Degree: 29-Apr-2014, Area: Process Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with SAIPEM and ENI
Riccardo Borgomaneri and Alessandro Magnaghi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti and S. Pierucci, Degree: 29-Apr-2014, Area: Gasification Process Engineering. Type: M.Sc.
Mattia Casari, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti and F. Rossi, Degree: 29-Apr-2014, Area: Process Control Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with DOW CHEMICAL
Andrea Colombo, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, S. Copelli, Degree: 29-Apr-2014, Area: Process Control Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with UNIVERSITA’ DELL’INSUBRIA
Andrea Bassani, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, Degree: 29-Apr-2014, Area: Process Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with TECHINT ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION
The thesis applied the patent PCT/IB2014/063615 (conversion of CO2 and H2S into syngas) to the coal gasification. Economical assessment demonstrated the relevance of the new technology.
Lorenzo Cabianca, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, F. Logist, J. Van Impe, Degree: 22-Oct-2014, Area: Proces Control. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with KATHOLIEKE UNIVERSITEIT LEUVEN – Mario Puccioni Award 2013 as best thesis activity.
Paolo Nicora and Anotnio Guizzetti, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, S. M. Diaz, Degree: 29-Apr-2014, Area: Plant Optimization. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with SOUTHERN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY
Giorgio Ferrigno, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, F. Logist, J. Van Impe, Degree: 19-Dec-2013, Area: Bio-Process Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with KATHOLIEKE UNIVERSITEIT LEUVEN
Alessia Corbetta, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, S. Pierucci, D. Papasidero, Degree: 19-Dec-2013, Area: Food Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with WHIRLPOOL
Davide Refinetti and Alessia Sonzogni, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, R. Maciel-Filho, Degree: 19-Dec-2013, Area: Process Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with UNIVERSITY OF CAMPINAS
Paolo Vallevi, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, G. Dotelli, M. Corbetta, Degree: 19-Dec-2013, Area: Process Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with CNR-ITAE MESSINA
Federico Lucernoni, Chemical Engineering, Supervisors: F. Manenti, H. A. Preisig, Degree: 19-Dec-2013, Area: Process Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with NTNU TRONDHEIM
Marina Lopez Melgar, Chemical Engineering, Supervisor: F. Manenti, Degree: 19-Dec-2013, Area: Process Control Engineering. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with MALAGA UNIVERSITY
M.Sc. degree candidates at the 23rd of April 2014. From the top-left: Andrea Colombo, Riccardo Borgomaneri, Maria Grazia Grottoli, Andrea Fratus, Davide Papasidero, Paolo Nicora, Flavio Manenti, Andrea Bassani, Andres Ricardo Leon Garzon; From the sit-left: Antonio Guizzetti, Francesco Morandi, Alessandro Magnaghi, Giorgio Ferrigno, Mattia Casari, Alessia Corbetta, Simone Albertini.
Giulia Croce and Francesco Rossi. Chemical Engineering. Supervisor: F. Manenti; Degree: 22-Oct-2013. Area: Plant Optimization. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with LINDE GAS
Giulia and Francesco developed an interpreter for solving the supply chain optimization of industrial gases corporations including the effects of product swap with competitors. The interpreter alloes to design very complex network of production sites accounting for company plants, competitor plants, fleets for logistics, and production planning at the corporate scale. Production sites can also be modeled using matrix-based approach for flowsheeting.
Andres Ricardo Leon Garzon. Chemical Engineering. Supervisors: F. Manenti; Degree: 23-Apr-2013. Area: Energy. Type: M.Sc.
Methanol synthesis using Lurgi technology; steady-state and dynamic modeling of the reactor network.
Alberto Comazzi. Industrial Chemistry. Supervisors: C. Pirola, F. Manenti; Degree: 23-Apr-2013. Area: Fuel. Type: M.Sc.
Fischer-Tropsch synthesis; Catalyst development and Fe/Co-based catalyst comparison.
Andrea Perego. Chemical Engineering. Supervisor: F. Manenti; Degree: 20-Dec-2012. Area: Industry (concrete production). Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with SIEMENS
Plantwide control of Cim Progetti’s rotary kiln and implementation in SIEMENS PLC for automatic start-up. Onsite validation on Tunisi plant (Tunisia).
Davide Papasidero. Chemical Engineering. Supervisors: F. Manenti, S. Pierucci; Degree: 20-Dec-2012. Area: Natural Gas. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with TECNIMONT-KT
Multiscale modeling (kinetic, reactor, process) od the thermal section of sulfur recovery units. Validation on Nanjingi plant (Chinese Rep.).
Matteo Bruni. Chemical Engineering. Supervisors: F. Manenti, S. Pierucci, E. Ranzi; Degree: 20-Dec-2012. Area: Upstream. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with DG IMPIANTI
First.principles modeling of elettrostatic coalescer for desalting operations and oily-water fine-separation.
Federico Nava. Chemical Engineering. Supervisors: F. Manenti, S. Pierucci; Degree: 20-Dec-2012. Area: Solar. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with KOCH HEAT TRANSFER
Dynamic-simulation-based design of cryogenic heat exchangers. Extension of the HTRI standard to the dynamic modeling.
Ergys Pahija. Chemical Engineering. Supervisors: F. Manenti, I. M
. Mujtaba; Degree: 22-Oct-2012. Area: Process control. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD
Control and optimization of batch processes.
Michele Corbetta. Chemical Engineering. Supervisors: F. Manenti, C. G. Visconti; Degree: 22-Oct-2012. Area: Environment. Type: M.Sc. in collaboration with DEPT. OF ENERGY of POLITECNICO DI MILANO and UNIVERSITY OF CAEN
The role of fluid-dynamic in spektrokinetic modeling and NOx storage
Paolo Silvio Carinci (Joint thesis, Dept. of Automation), Dynamic simulation and application of advanced estimation techniques to chemical processes
Marco Gabba, Linear programming: comparing existing techniques and a novel method
Matteo Cicciotti (joint thesis, NTNU, Norway) – Model based safety and operability verification. An hybrid automaton approach
Alessandro Pulieri – Use of differential-algebraic models for the predictive control of chemical processes
Nino Giannola (Joint thesis, Dept. of Energy)- Qualitative and quantitative kinetic study of NOx adsorption on LNT Pt-Ba/Al2O3 catalyst using dynamic simulation
Matteo D’Isanto – Optimization of chemical plant networks with mixed-integer variables
Marco Pagliughi (joint thesis, HONEYWELL)- Rigorous models applied to distributed control system
Luca Vigana e Mattia Vallerio, Optimal control techniques for chemical processes
Greta Pravettoni e Tommaso Valcamonica, Simulation and data reconciliation of sulfur recovery units
Silvia Cieri e Marco Restelli, Optimal control based on partial-differential equation models. Application to the methanol synthesis reactor
Roberto Totaro e Paolo Fabbri, Strategic and Tactical Optimization of Formula 1 Grand Prix
Marco Tolomeo e Alessia Carnelli, Dynamic simulation and analysis of industrial accidents. The case of BP Texas refinery
Dario Morandi e Federico Tagliabue, Nonlinear predictive control: definition of a structured algorithm and comparison with the linear MPC
Marco Mazzoleni, Data analysis and performance monitoring applied to the field of power generation
Valentino Mauro, Planning and optimization of continuous plant production: application to the industrial gases supply chain
Filippo De Francesco, Modeling and design of conventional control loops for fast-response
Walter Peviani e Potito D’Arcangelo, Claus process: kinetic and fluid-dynamic analysis of thermal furnace and waste heat boiler
Former B.Sc. Students
Riccardo Brazzoli, Application of the PHoCa Suite to the catalytic converter of the Claus process, 01.nov..2014-15.dec.2014
Fiona Soares – Detailed modeling of coal gasification
Claudia Burgarella – Parametric geothermal desalter design and simulation for Isola di Pantelleria
Davide Calabrese – Dynamic simulation of acid gas compressor train
Annalisa Landoni – Geothermal desalter design and simulation for Isola della Maddalena
Tommaso Firpo – Effects of sulfur and nitrogen oxides on hydrocarbon oxidation at the operating conditions of the Claus process
Pauline Vitte – Dynamic simulation of concentrating solar plants
Giorgio Ferrigno – Dynamic simulation of bio-systems
Davide Refinetti – Concentrating solar plants: state of the art and technical economic considerations
Riccardo Borgomaneri – Dynamic simulation and control for the start-up procedure of a C2-Splitter
Federica Furnari – Dynamic simulation of process operations for cryogenic storages
Antonio Pezzolla – Snowball effect: development of plant-wide control systems
Alessia Carnelli – Conventional and emergency plant shutdown procedures
Marco Mazzoleni – Performance monitoring to improve plant management and maintenance
Stefano Signor – Process dynamic simulation for startup and shutdown transients