(446b) Optimal Control Theory for Batch Distillation with Missing Components

Batch distillation is commonly used unit operation in specialty chemicals.  In order to maximize the profitability and improve separation using batch distillation column, optimal reflux operation can be used.  The mathematical and numerical complexities of the optimal control problem get worse when there are missing components in the mixture whose properties could not be included in analysis.  This paper presents a theory based on Ito’s calculus and stochastic maximum principle for optimizing the column performance when some of the components are missing.  This algorithm is implemented in the MultiBatchDS batch distillation process simulator. Finally, a numerical case-study derived from a real world batch distillation separation problem encountered at Firmenich is presented to show the scope and application of the proposed approach.