Violaro F., Rivera E., Alvarez L., 2018, Multivariable Model Predictive Control of a Continuous Fermentation Unit for First-Generation Ethanol Production, Chemical Engineering Transactions, 65, 67-72.
This study presents the application of an advanced multivariable control strategy to a continuous fermentation process for first-generation ethanol production. The Model Predictive Control (MPC) was applied, a suitable strategy to control and optimize process systems subject to constraints. A continuous industrial fermentation process with four reactors arranged in series is considered. Based on a dynamic simulation of the process, the MPC is tested to deal with several disturbances, such as the fluctuations of the substrate concentration in the raw materials and fermentation temperature. The control objective is to maintain the substrate concentration in the last reactor and the temperature in the reactors at its desired values, by manipulating the feed flow rate and the cooling water flow rate of the external heat exchangers.
