Dynamic Optimization Study for Cryogenic Distillation in Hydrogen Isotope Separation System

This paper presents a dynamic optimization study on a cryogenic distillation unit in hydrogen isotope separation system. A packed distillation column with an equilibrator is considered. The packed column was modeled as a theoretical equilibrium-based stage column. The equilibrator was placed to enhance separation performance. An optimal control problem was formulated to minimize the tritium holdup under two product quality constraints, in a situation where feed flowrate is periodically fluctuated. An optimal control policy was obtained for two manipulating variables, namely distillate flowrate and reboiler heat duty. The optimal control policy was analyzed by examining the operating variable profiles of the column.