Towards a novel process concept for the hydroformylation of higher alkenes: Mini-plant operation strategies via model development and optimal experimental design

When developing a new process with expensive and dangerous reaction partners, it is often of interest to keep pilot plant operation time low. A model of the process can aid in achieving this goal. However, the model is generally prone to errors, and thus, leading to deviations from the actual operation. In this contribution, the focus is set on the modeling of a novel process concept for the hydroformylation of long-chained alkenes with particular interest laid on the three phase micellar system. Moreover, a methodology is presented to support operators in determining suitable operating policies for mini-plant operation. Two models of the core units, reactor and decanter, of the constructed mini-plant are presented and linked. With these, an operation policy for the minimization of model parameter uncertainty is determined.