The use of calorimetry for on-line optimisation of isothermal semi-batch reactors

This paper considers the maximisation of conversion by manipulating the inp ut flowrate for an exothermic second-order esterification reaction (propion ic anhydride + 2-butanol) performed in a semi-batch reactor. Safety conside rations impose bounds on the heat release rate in normal operation and on t he maximum attainable temperature in the case of cooling failure. The optim al time-varying input flowrate is calculated on-line using a heat balance o ver the reactor. Significant improvement over the best constant feed rate c an be achieved. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.