Can a computer “learn” nonlinear chromatography?: Physics-based deep neural networks for simulation and optimization of chromatographic processes

•Physics-based artificial neural network for simulation of non-linear chromatography.•ANN learns column dynamics from limited training data and physics of chromatography.•Prediction of elution curves for 4 different systems of generalized Langmuir isotherm.•ANN allows for rapid optimization for touching-band separations.