Design Methodology and Performance Analysis of a Pseudo‐Simulated Moving Bed for Ternary Separation

Abstract This paper presents design equations for ternary separation using a pseudo‐simulated moving bed unit. The analysis of the dynamics of separation as well as the positioning of the concentration waves of species into units is addressed. The derived equations in the frame of the equilibrium theory for linear adsorption provide constraints on the position of the species, which allow the determination of operational conditions for a required separation performance. A flow chart is tested with a pseudo‐SMB applied to the separation of two ternary mixtures of sugars. It is shown how strongly the positioning of concentration waves and then the operational parameters can affect the unit performance. Mass transfer effects play an important role on the decision of using SMBs in cascade or pseudo‐SMB unit in ternary separations.