Rigorous modeling, simulation and optimization of a conventional and nonconventional batch reactive distillation column: A comparative study of dynamic optimization approaches

In this paper we address the optimization of two batch distillation columns: a conventional batch distillation column (BDC) and a nonconventional dividing wall batch distillation column (DWBDC) with and without chemical reaction. The simultaneous solution of these systems of differential and algebraic equations is performed using two different approaches: pure equation oriented approach (EOA) based on orthogonal collocation over finite elements implemented in GAMS (24.2.2), and control vector parameterization (CVP) as implemented in gPROMS (3.7.1). In order to accomplish this objective, we describe and propose for the nonconventional batch configuration, two dynamic models that involve stage-by-stage calculations for the time varying column profiles. Case studies with and without reaction are presented in order to compare the two discretization approaches and to demonstrate possible benefits of dividing wall columns in batch separations.