Persons at STU
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Basic informationBasic information about a final thesis
Additional informationAdditional information about the final thesis follows. Click on the language link to display the information in the desired language.| Language of final thesis: | English |
| Title of the thesis: | Mathematical Modeling and Optimal Operation of Membrane Processes |
| Summary: | The objective of this thesis is to operate membrane processes optimally in theory followed by in
experiments. The research work comprises mathematical modeling, simulation, optimization, and
implementation of optimal operation of batch membrane diafiltration processes.
The purpose of membrane separation is to increase the concentration of the product (macro-
solute) and decrease the concentration of impurities (micro-solute). A combination of semi-permeable
membrane and diluant addition (diafiltration), is used to serve the purpose.
The optimal operation implemented in this research is model based, and hence the modeling of
membrane processes forms the first part of this work. Modeling of different configurations of membrane
processes has been done, with some new model derivations to help the research field. The batch
open-loop and closed-loop diafiltration configurations are studied. The modeling section also includes
dynamically fitting the existing models to the experimental data, to obtain the optimal parameter
values.
The modeling is followed by the simulation and implementation of optimal operation. Implemen-
tation involves performing the optimal operation on a laboratory scale membrane separation plant.
The aim of optimization is to find analytically the addition rate of solvent (diluant) into the feed tank
in order to reach the final concentrations whilst minimizing costs.
The objectives to be minimized are processing time, or diluant consumption, or both for batch
open-loop diafiltration processes. Pontryagin’s minimum principle is utilized to attain the analytical
solution for optimal operation. The optimal operation derivation is verified experimentally on a plant using nanofiltration form of membrane separation. Case studies are implemented showing the
optimal operation and its comparison with the current or traditional industrial strategies of membrane
separation.
In case of batch closed-loop diafiltration processes the objectives to be minimized are time, or
diluant consumption, or power, or a combination of them. The numerical methods of orthogonal col-
locations, and control vector parameterization are applied to obtain the optimal operation strategies.
Case studies are studied in simulation. The inferences are established regarding the advantages and
disadvantages of batch closed-loop over open-loop configuration. |
| Key words: | Modeling, Optimal operation, Nanofiltration, Diafiltration, Pontryagin’s minimum principle, Membrane separation, Batch implementation |
Display and download filesTo display the final thesis assignment form click on the Display the final thesis assignment form icon. The following icons - Final thesis, Thesis appendices, Supervisor's review, Opponent's review - relate to the final thesis and can be downloaded. They could be displayed on condition they have been inserted and are available publicly.
Parts of thesis with postponed release:| – | Final thesis (final thesis appendices) unlimited |
| – | Reviews for final thesis unlimited |