Scheme for Time-optimal Operation of Semi-batch Emulsion Polymerization Reactors

Emulsion polymerization processes are characterized by exothermic reactions with complicated nonlinear dynamics. A very precise temperature control is necessary in order to ensure that the end product satisfies the quality demands. In industry, this issue is addressed by adopting a conservative monomer feed policy such that a robust operation is guaranteed under various disturbing influences. A combination of a monomer feed controller based on jacket temperature constraint and a monomer feed controller based on droplet phase avoidance constraint that optimizes the batch time is analysed in terms of robustness and performance. The simulation results show that the scheme reduces the batch time without harming the quality of the temperature control.