Experimental implementation of automatic 'cycle to cycle' control to a nonlinear chiral simulated moving bed...

Area of Science:

• Chemical Engineering
• Chromatography

Background:

• Simulated moving bed (SMC) chromatography offers significant economic potential but requires precise control.
• Existing control methods struggle with high-concentration operations and process variability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally implement and validate a 'cycle to cycle' control concept for SMC.
• To assess the controller's performance in separating guaifenesin enantiomers under nonlinear conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an automated on-line HPLC monitoring system for feedback control.
• Implemented a 'cycle to cycle' controller requiring only linear adsorption data and column porosity.
• Conducted case studies with pump disturbances and varying feed concentrations.

Main Results:

• The controller accurately determined average product stream concentrations even at high feed levels.
• Experimental results confirmed the controller's ability to maintain specified purities.
• Demonstrated improved process performance and robustness under realistic operational challenges.

Conclusions:

• The 'cycle to cycle' control strategy is effective for simulated moving bed chromatography.
• This approach enhances process economics by enabling operation at high concentrations and improving control accuracy.
• The controller offers a robust solution for complex separation tasks in industrial chromatography.