On the Optimal Operation of Crystallization Processes

The problem of determining the optimal operating conditions for both continuous and batch crystallizers is discussed, and good physical reasons for the existence of unconstrained optimal policies given. Computational methods for determining these optimal policies are outlined and illustrated by analogy with earlier work on polymerization reactors. A specific problem of the optimal temperature program in a batch crystallizer is solved and the results compared with the predictions and experimental data of Mullin and Nyvlt (1971).