Development of a mass transfer model for the rate-based simulation of a batch distillation column

Abstract

The rate-based model for distillation computes mass and heat transfer rates, allowing better predictions of the performance of the columns. Nevertheless, one of the fundamental issues with the rate-based model is the necessity of reliable mass transfer models, which may vary in terms of the kind of mixture and the trays/packing geometry. In this work, a mass transfer model is proposed to represent the separation of a methanol/ethanol mixture in the trays of a batch column. The model assumes a bubbling regime. The mass transfer model is incorporated to the rate-based model of the column, obtaining the composition and temperature profiles along the column. The model is validated with experimental data. The results indicate that rate-based model with the mass transfer model has a reduction of 3.5% in the error of the compositions profile compared with the equilibrium model.