Use of extended exergy analysis as a tool to optimize the environmental performance of industrial processes

Traditional applications of exergy analysis have focused upon the optimization of energy use in thermal and chemical processes. This dissertation discusses an extended form of exergy analysis in which the principle is applied to optimize material flows as well. This form of analysis, termed Extended Exergy Analysis (EEA), is shown to be particularly useful in valuating the environmental performance of industrial processes.; EEA differs from traditional theory in its requirement that all ground states be defined such that they are environmentally acceptable. Environmental acceptability can be determined using a number of health, occupational, and ecological criteria. By integrating biological considerations into the existing physical definition, EEA provides manufacturers and regulators alike with relevant information regarding the costs of achieving environmentally-compatible production. These costs are valued consistently for both raw material and energy inputs and product and residual outputs, affording degrees of transparency and objectivity not present in other valuation methodologies.; EEA is shown to be a powerful tool within the larger, emerging discipline of industrial ecology. The dissertation includes a brief overview of material and energy characterization in industrial ecology, a discussion of the fundamental characteristics and constraints of exergy analysis, and a summary of current research involving the environmental applications of exergy. The theoretical development of EEA is followed by detailed application of the methodology to case studies involving both metal machining and chemical processing. Results are presented and discussed.