Modelling polymerization reactors with applications to optimal design

Using generating functions, models for polymerization reactors are developed without using kinetic approximations. One of the models is then used for the optimization of a series of tank reactors in which free radical polymerization is taking place. It is found that peak‐seeking methods are a convenient and efficient method of optimizing such systems. Curves showing “optimal” design alternatives are generated for the simple example treated.