Control and optimization of batch processes

Batch processing presents several challenges. Increased competition calls for reduced production costs through a higher level of automation; however, chemical producers are expected to employ fewer in-house specialists in many areas, including process control. Technically, the main operational difficulty in batch-process improvement lies in the presence of run-end outputs such as final quality, which cannot be measured during the run. Although model-based solutions are available, process models in the batch area tend to be poor. On the other hand, measurement-based optimization for a given batch faces the challenge of having to know about the future to act during the batch. Consequently, the main research push is in the area of measurement-based optimization and the use of data from both the current and previous batches for control and optimization purposes