Process Systems Engineering from an industrial and academic perspective

Abstract

Process Systems Engineering (PSE) deals with decision-making, at all levels and scales, by understanding complex process systems using a holistic view. Computer Aided Process Engineering (CAPE) is a complementary field that focuses on developing methods and providing solution through systematic computer aided techniques for problems related to the design, control and operation of chemical systems. The ‘PSE’ term suffers from a branding issue to the point that PSE does not get the recognition it deserves. This work aims to provide an informative industrial and academic perspective on PSE, arguing that the ‘systems thinking’ and ‘systems problem solving’ have to be prioritized ahead of just applications of computational problem solving methods. A multi-level view of the PSE field is provided within the academic and industrial context, and enhancements for PSE are suggested at their industrial and academic interfaces.