Studying Various Optimal Control Problems in Biodiesel Production in a Batch Reactor under Uncertainty

Optimal control problems encountered in biodiesel production can be formulated using various performance indices like maximum concentration, minimum time, and maximum profit. The problems involve determining optimal temperature profile so as to maximize these performance indices. This paper presents these three formulations and analyzes the solutions in biodiesel production. We also present the maximum profit problem where the variability and uncertainties in the feed composition of soybean are considered.