A framework for modelling emerging processes' upscaling from an environmental perspective

摘要

Upscaling emerging processes is a very uncertain topic due to the lack of information about the impacts of their dissemination in the industrial system and the environment. However, anticipating potential environmental impacts of novel technologies appears to be essential to reach sustainability. In this context, a framework was created in order to help give an insight of these impacts from an early stage, using laboratory data. This article begins with a literature review about upscaling in chemical engineering and Life Cycle Assessment. A framework was then proposed for the upscaling of emerging processes, using laboratory data to anticipate the impacts. A case study is presented in a third section to illustrate the application and results obtainable with the framework to the manufacturing of the surfactant, Alkyl Polyglycosides. Finally, limits and perspectives about this approach are given as conclusions.