Optimization of reactors with catalyst decay and the constant conversion policy

Abstract

For continuous stirred-tank and plug-flow catalytic reactors in which the catalyst activity decreases with time, Szepe [1] showed that the optimal temperature-time policy can lead to a policy of constant exit conversion under specific conditions. These conditions included a single irreversible reaction with a separable rate equation and a rate of decay of catalyst activity also separable and independent of composition. It is the purpose of this paper to extend the results of Szepe and to establish: (a) A necessary and sufficient condition for a constant-conversion optimal policy in a continuous stirred-tank reactor, and (b) A proof of the constant-conversion policy for a plug-flow reactor with distributed control of temperature for a general irreversible reaction with separable kinetics. In both cases, the rate of decay is assumed to depend on composition.