Browsing by Author "Kumar, Mukesh"

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    Circular supply chains and renewable chemical feedstocks : a network configuration analysis framework
    (Taylor and Francis, 2018) Srai, Jagjit Singh; Tsolakis, Naoum; Kumar, Mukesh; Bam, Wouter
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The aim of this research is to provide a comprehensive decision-making process and a framework for exploring the commercial viability of supply chains (SCs) arising from renewable chemical feedstocks (RCFs), towards delivering value-added intermediates or end-products. To that end, we first introduce an inclusive hierarchical decision-making process that applies to all stakeholders involved in the design and management of circular SCs defined by RCF platform technologies. Thereafter, the identified decisions are encapsulated in a framework highlighting that the potential SC configuration alternatives are grounded on four essential theme areas, namely: (i) RCF, (ii) technology, (iii) market and (iv) value and viability. Our analysis highlights the significance of RCFs due to their emerging potential of replacing petrochemicals; however, existing research is evidently limited due to scope and data-related challenges, and the inherent complexity at the market side of the respective supply networks.
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    Renewable chemical feedstock supply network design : the case of terpenes
    (Elsevier, 2019) Tsolakis, Naoum; Bam, Wouter; Srai, Jagjit Singh; Kumar, Mukesh
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Designing supply networks enabled by renewable chemical feedstocks presents complexities in terms ofundefined markets, multiple intermediate chemical compound options and uncertain chemical con-version pathways. This research addresses this gap by developing a structured approach for designingcompound class defined supply chains (SCs) through involving the analysis of: (i) renewable chemicalfeedstock sources; (ii) alternative technology and processing options; (iii) intermediate or end-usermarkets; and (iv) commercial value and viability. In particular, we apply this approach on the prom-ising case of terpenoid feedstocks. Further, in the specific case of terpenes we analyse renewable feed-stock SC options for the production of‘green’pharmaceuticals demonstrated by a case study onparacetamol. To that end, evidence is obtained through collating the dispersed literature on renewablechemical feedstocks, by semi-structured interviews and through expert panel engagements involvingindustry and academic informants. The studyfindings inform about the systemic mapping and modellingof compound class defined material-processing-supply networks, further providing a basis to identifyfeasible intermediate andfinal product options. The research contributes to the operations managementacademic and practice literature by proposing a structured approach for mapping and designingrenewable chemical feedstock SCs from a source material perspective, in this case renewable terpenoidfeedstocks, in contrast to the traditional end-market applications. From a circular economy perspective,the use of renewable feedstocks in extended SCs demonstrates the utility of the approach by integratingsupply side considerations (i.e. feedstock) with uncertainties of intermediate processing options andcommercialisation routes.