Open-loop control of particle size distribution in semi-batch emulsion copolymerization using a genetic algorithm

• Published in: Chemical engineering science Vol. 57; no. 20; pp. 4415 - 4427
• Main Authors: Immanuel, Charles David, Doyle III, Francis Joseph
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 01.10.2002; Elsevier
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Copolymerization; Emulsion polymerization; Exact sciences and technology; Optimal control; Organic polymers; Physicochemistry of polymers; Preparation, kinetics, thermodynamics, mechanism and catalysts; PSD control; Emulsion polymerization; PSD control; Optimal control; Ester copolymer; Particle size distribution; Vinyl acetate copolymer; Emulsion copolymerization; Genetic algorithm; Process control; Polymerization reactor; Butyl acrylate copolymer; Semicontinuous; Optimization
• ISSN: 0009-2509; 1873-4405
• DOI: 10.1016/S0009-2509(02)00355-X

The open-loop generation of an optimal feed profile to attain a target particle size distribution (PSD) in the semi-batch emulsion co-polymerization of vinyl acetate and butyl acrylate is described. A nominal model of the process based on population balancing is utilized for this purpose. A Genetic Algorithm is employed as the optimization strategy. The optimal recipes generated in these studies are implemented on an experimental emulsion polymerization reactor. The end-point PSD obtained in these experiments closely matches the target in spite of the model uncertainties and process disturbances. Examination of the evolution of the PSD up to the end point provides useful information for feedback control strategies.