Optimization of a Semibatch Distillation Process with Model Validation on the Industrial Site

Abstract

An industrial semibatch distillation process with a chemical reaction in the reboiler is optimized to minimize the batch operation time. A detailed dynamic model is employed to describe the process and incorporated in the optimization problem. This model is validated with the measured data from the experiment directly on the industrial site. The optimal reflux ratio and the feed rate policies of the process are developed with an efficient optimization approach. It can be shown that up to 30% of the operation time can be saved with the optimal policies developed in comparison to the conventional operation. The modeling and optimization approach proposed can be readily applied to the optimization of general batch distillation processes.