Simulated annealing for the optimization of batch distillation processes

Batch distillation processes are widely used in the chemical industry. In t his work, we consider the optimization of such processes by simulated annea ling. Although this method is stochastically in nature, it has two well-kno wn advantages: it can be readily connected to highly sophisticated simulati on codes and it converges towards a global optimum. According to the charac teristics of batch distillation operation we propose to use a two-step comp utation approach. A feasible strategy (admissible control) will be searched for in the first step and it will be optimized in the second step. The app roach has been applied to a model of a pilot batch distillation plant. Thes e results show the potential of the method for developing optimal operation strategies for batch chemical processes; (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. Al l rights reserved.