Optimization and non-linear control of a batch emulsion polymerization reactor

The optimal temperature policy which minimizes the terminal time in a batch emulsion polymerization reactor of styrene and alpha-methylstyrene was det ermined by means of orthogonal collocation techniques combined with a gener al non-linear programming method. The constraints concern the final latex p roperties and the thermal limitations of the pilot plant. An experimental v alidation has been realized. The optimal temperature profile was tracked us ing a non-linear geometric control technique which is particularly adapted to polymerization reactor control. An extended Kalman filter was used to es timate the non-measured state variables. Experimental results showed excell ent agreement with predictions for this complex system. A good temperature tracking was observed and the product quality was well predicted and contro lled. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.