Reactor network synthesis with guaranteed robust stability

Abstract This paper proposes a systematic approach to design reactor networks with guaranteed robust stability. The approach is based on the superstructure approach for reactor network synthesis. A structured dynamic model for reactor network modeling is formulated and embedded in a MINLP with robust eigenvalue constraints. Design parameters, structural alternatives and parametric uncertainty are considered simultaneously as design degrees of freedom. Structural alternatives result from decisions on the existence of reactors and flow connections in the superstructure. Parametric uncertainty may either result from model uncertainties such as reaction kinetic constants or heat transfer coefficients, or from process uncertainties including slow disturbances in load or quality of raw materials. A tailored two-step solution strategy is proposed to tackle the robust mixed-integer optimization problem. A case study with five continuous stirred-tank reactors (CSTR) and five plug flow reactors (PFR) is presented for illustration.

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