Optimization of Distillation Sequence Based on Integration of Reaction-Separation System

Abstract

On the basis of the integration of reaction and distillation systems, a systematic method is proposed for optimizing the distillation sequence with components separated individually by simple distillation columns and analyzing the effect of reactor parameters. Matrixes are employed to illustrate splits and distillation sequences; the distribution law of elements in the matrixes and the universal logical algorithm are deduced for identifying the structure of distillation sequence. With the reaction kinetics and material balance incorporated, the procedure is developed for targeting the optimal distillation sequence with the minimum vapor rate. On the basis of this method, the optimal distillation sequence at different reaction conditions can be identified, as well as the optimal reactor parameters. The proposed method is used to analyze the reaction–separation system of a styrene unit, and the results are consistent with the energy consumptions obtained by the rigorous simulation of Aspen Plus.