A model-based approach for controlling particle size distribution in combined cooling-antisolvent crystallization processes

Ghadipasha, N.

Member of the Collaboration Group

;Romagnoli, J. A.

Member of the Collaboration Group

;Tronci, S.

Member of the Collaboration Group

;Baratti, R.

Member of the Collaboration Group

2018-01-01

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Abstract

This article focuses on the design and implementation of model-based control strategies for real time control of crystal size distribution (CSD) in semi batch crystallization processes. The objective of the feedback controller is to reach a desired particle mean size while the standard deviation is controlled in a feedforward fashion. Alternative model-based control strategies are formulated and implemented for a target mean size. An image processing technique based on wavelet-fractal and energy signature analysis is employed to determine online CSD status for the controller's corrective actions. To validate the proposed model-based control strategies, unseeded crystallization of sodium chloride in water using ethanol as antisolvent is performed in an experimental bench-scale semi-batch crystallizer.