Final answer:
A chemical engineer would likely use a Decision Support System (DSS) to prototype and test new manufacturing processes for industrial products due to the system's ability to assist in making informed decisions based on various parameters.
Step-by-step explanation:
A chemical engineer might use a Decision Support System (DSS) in prototyping and testing a new manufacturing process for making batches of an industrial cleaning product. A DSS is a computer-based system used for analyzing business data and presenting actionable information to help executives, managers, and other corporate end users make informed decisions. In the context of chemical engineering, a DSS could help in evaluating various process parameters, production methods, and the impact on cost, efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance.
Chemical engineers apply principles of chemistry to solve problems and design systems for the production of chemicals, focusing on optimizing production processes to increase yield and reduce costs. They ensure the manufacturing process is both efficient and safe for workers and consumers while minimizing environmental impact, which is critical when dealing with large-scale production facilities employed by companies like Dow, DuPont, and Monsanto.
Improving process efficiency in manufacturing not only involves enhancing the product itself but also the systems by which the product is created. Engineering design plays a critical role in this, as it requires a broad array of knowledge from mathematics to engineering and an understanding of constraints such as manufacturability and sustainability.