Initialization strategy for the dynamic optimization of a batch distillation column with a rate-based model

Abstract Batch distillation is one of the most common separation processes used in the pharmaceutical, agricultural, food and biotechnology industries. The rate-based model is an accurate approach to represent the performance of distillation trays, since it involves the mass and energy transfer equations to describe the interaction between the phases. For batch distillation, such approach results in a set of nonlinear differential and algebraic equations (DAE). Because of the complexity of such systems, good initial values are required for their solution. Thus, a strategy to estimate the initial values for a trayed batch distillation column modeled with a rate-based approach is presented in this work. The column under investigation consists of four sieve trays, a pot, and a total condenser. For the initialization procedure, the model equations are solved under a steady state assumption.