ChemE-as-Code: An Open-Source Platform for Agentic AI in Chemical Engineering
Researchers introduce ChemE-as-Code, an open-source environment where LLM-based agents can perform chemical engineering tasks using calculation tools spanning catalysis, process simulation, plant layout, HAZOP and life cycle assessment. Engineering files are machine-readable, versioned in Git, and calculations run outside the LLM, with each value recording its origin and automated checks flagging inconsistencies and out-of-date results by file and line. In an illustrative ammonia case, agents produced a preliminary basic-engineering package for USD 224 of API cost; planted faults and engineering changes showed the checks catch only what their rules cover, so they support rather than replace human review. The design has not been reviewed by an independent engineer.