Energy-saving design and optimization of pressure-swing-assisted ternary heterogenous azeotropic distillations

• A novel pressure-swing-assisted ternary heterogeneous azeotropic distillation (THAD) process is proposed to synergistically combine heterogeneous azeotropic and pressure-swing distillation, achieving significant energy savings. • The integration of dividing-wall column and heat integration technologies further reduces energy consumption and CO2 emissions compared to published THAD processes. • Genetic algorithm optimization is employed to handle the complex design variables, demonstrating superior energy efficiency and environmental performance. • The proposed processes avoid aqueous phase remixing and reduce recycle stream flowrates, enhancing overall process sustainability.