Model-based techniques for controlling processes in chemical engineering

Model-based measuring and control techniques find a wide field of application in chemical engineering. In order to run chemical reactors or separation processes under well defind operation conditions, the knowledge of those variables which cannot be measured directly is often requisite. In these cases estimation techniques can be applied when process models are available. It is the aim to demonstrate, that these methods gain increasing significance in practical application, when complex processes in chemical industries are to be controlled. These methods are necessary to ensure safe operation of reactors, to monitor and control the product quality and to facilitate the starting up of process units with strong interaction. In solving these problems the development of reduced mathematical models for nonlinear systems is often an important task. (66 References