Mathematical modeling of a simulated moving-bed adsorption process: Parex™ technology as a case study

Abstract

A simplified dynamic mathematical model for a simulated moving-bed adsorption process is presented. The model is adopted to simulate the separation process of p-xylene from the other 8-carbon aromatics by means of the Parex™ technology. Operating conditions and the moving-bed structure for a commercial plant were used and the performance of the unit was simulated. The model results are in good agreement with the findings of similar existing studies. Comparison of the results of this simplified model with those obtained by other researches indicates a considerable decrease in central processing unit (CPU) time. A simple but efficient mathematical model is proposed for performance evaluation of a simulated moving-bed adsorption unit. The proposed model is capable for analyzing the adsorption unit with acceptable accuracy and a lower central processing unit time. It can contribute to the optimization of operating conditions, trouble shooting, and enhancement of productivity. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.