End-point optimization of single-reaction systems

Batch and semi-batch processes are of considerable importance in the batch chemical industry. In the face of increased competition, process optimization provides a unified framework for reducing production costs, meeting safety requirements and environmental regulations, improving product quality, reducing product variability, and ease of scale-up [Bonvin, 1988]. In this paper, a numerical optimization approach is developed that utilizes a dynamic model to determine analytically, the structure of the optimal solution for a single-reaction system. This approach is tested via simulation of an end-point optimization problem in a batch chemical reactor.