Molecular weight distribution control in a batch polymerization reactor using the on-line two-step method

This paper applies the two-step method to analyze the feasibility of the de sired molecular weights and develops the on-line two-step method to obtain the polymer product with the desired molecular weight distribution (MWD) un der process disturbances. If adequate sensors and process model are availab le to predict the effects of disturbances, then midcourse correction polici es are obtained by using the on-line two-step method. Far an illustrative e xample of the on-line two-step method, we conduct the styrene solution poly merization in a batch reactor system and demonstrate the excellent performa nce for MWD control under the measured process disturbances.