Atom search optimization (ASO) algorithm derived from physics molecular dynamics. Lennard-Jones(L-J) and bond length potential of molecules are used to derive the model for optimization. In this paper, ASO is used for developing a nonlinear Fractional Order Proportional Integral Derivative controller (NL-FOPID) for Continuously Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR). The convergence characteristics of ASO was improved by proposing a novel hybridization approach. The proposed hybridization approach called Hybrid ASO(HASO) guides the Atom search algorithm to optimally replace the atoms that goes out of the boundary of the search space. The designed algorithm is implemented to optimize various unimodal and multi model standard benchmark functions. From results obtained from this extensive simulation, it is indicated that proposed approach increased the convergence rate and also improved the optimization effort of conventional ASO. The proposed algorithm also tested with controller design for nonlinear CSTR. The NLPID and NL FOPID designed by HASO was better than conventional controllers found in the literature.