From Bifurcations to Complex Networks

W. Harmon Ray's contributions are widely recognized in the fields of Polymer Reaction Engineering, and Process Control Theory. His pioneering contributions to nonlinear dynamics and complex systems, specifically to the introduction of bifurcation theory to chemical engineering are mostly known to researchers practicing in this field. However, the fact remains that he has had a marked impact on the classical problem of stability and dynamics of the CSTR.

In the tradition of WHR, we discuss the stability behavior and dynamics of systems of competing autocatalators in simple and complex reactor configurations. We also discuss applications of complex networks in chemical engineering, the control of complex networks systems, and the use of autonomous intelligent agents for monitoring and control.