Non-linear model predictive control for thermal control of a semi — batch reactor: Experimental and simulation results

This paper describes the strategy of the non-linear model predictive control (NMPC) to the thermal control of a batch or semi — batch chemical reactor equipped with a multi — fluid heating/cooling system. The application of non-linear model predictive control is based on an open-loop constrained optimisation problem solved repeatedly on-line by a sequential optimisation and solution strategy on a PC for a typical temperature sampling rate. A sensitivity analysis of the NMPC to design parameters has been carried out in simulation studies. The experimental results obtained on a 16 litre pilot plant are then presented showing the feasibility of a such methodology to control the temperature and give some satisfactory results.