Using a statistical multiresponse method of experimental design in a reaction network study

A statistical design method for multiresponse models was used in an experimental study of a reaction network. The study involved the vanadia‐catalysed oxidation of o‐xylene using a recirculation reactor. Concentrations of reactants and temperature were used as operating variables, and the concentrations of products were the measured responses. The published design procedure was modified by conducting several runs after each design evaluation to reduce computing costs while retaining the benefits of statistical design and analysis. This enabled network analysis to be conducted efficiently to the limits of the equipment, and pointed the way to improved estimates of the parameters.