Nonlinear model-based control of a solution copolymerization continuous stirred tank reactor

The control of solution coplymerization continuous stirred tank reactor is one of the most complex problems of chemical industry. As a first approach, this system had a mathematical model of eight interactive non-linear equations, which require an appropriate decoupling and linearization strategy. To do so, we use state feedback linearization. Moreover, three equations have been added in order to enable the control of the number and weight average molecular weights. Four cases were distinguished in the present study, depending on the considered outputs set. From an industrial application perspective, the robustness of the controllers as well as the change of the set point have received a particular attention. The solution copolymerization of methyl methacrylate and vinyl acetate is used as an illustrative example where ethyl acetate is the solvent and azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) is the initiator.