Control of nonlinear processes by using linear model predictive control algorithms

Most chemical processes are inherently nonlinear. However, because of their simplicity, linear control algorithms have been used for the control of nonlinear processes. In this study, the use of the dynamic matrix control algorithm and a simplified model predictive control algorithm for control of a bench-scale pH neutralization process is investigated. The nonlinearity is handled by dividing the operating region into sub-regions and by switching the controller model as the process moves from one sub-region to another. A simple modification for model predictive control algorithms is presented to handle the switching. The simulation and experimental results show that the modification can provide a significant improvement in the control of nonlinear processes.