Journal of Applied Polymer Science, Vol.69, No.6, 1137-1152, 1998
Optimization of batch solution polymerizations : Simulation studies using an inhibitor and a chain-transfer agent
Multiobjective constrained optimizations are carried out to compute optimal operation policies for batch solution polymerizations of styrene. It is shown by simulations how specified values for conversion : average molecular weight, and polydispersity may be achieved through the proper manipulation of the temperature profile and the initial amounts of the initiator, chain-transfer agent (modifier), and inhibitor. The optimizations show that the use of inhibitors and/or modifiers is seldomly required, unless the process economics is taken into consideration or the high-molecular weight chain fraction of the final polymer resin is to be minimized.
Keywords:MULTIOBJECTIVE DYNAMIC OPTIMIZATION;FREE-RADICAL POLYMERIZATION;END TIME POLICIES;REACTOR;COPOLYMERIZATION;STYRENE