Minimum Energy and Materials Consumption Within Flow Systems and Life Cycle Analysis

This paper introduces a new and innovative method of presenting flow systems and life cycle analysis systems. It employs the ‘least in, least out’ principle, and presents the results in a simple line graph, called energy and resource minimisation (ERM) graphs, which can be easily and quickly appraised. Modifications to the system in terms of material, energy or process changes can be readily evaluated, allowing determination of the minimum energy and materials necessary for the system under consideration. The Exergetic Potential, Γ is defined and used as an indication of the quality of energy, or the capability of an energy source to produce useful work. The parameter is used to aid stream matching between input and output streams to and from the system, thereby ensuring that minimum energy and material consumption is achieved.