Optimization of a Fluidized Bed Reactor for the Production of Styrene from Ethylbenzene

Author

Gregory EspenanFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-4-2022

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Chemical Engineering

First Advisor

Adam Smith

Relational Format

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

In order to optimize Unit 500, a styrene production plant, the Net Present Value (NPV) was used as the objective function to ensure every optimization strategy had a positive economic effect. To optimize a chemical plant, it is important to note efficiency, economics, product specifications, and production requirements. The goal of this project was to make changes to the base case of Unit 500 to minimize the cost to produce styrene for an upstream unit. PRO/II was used to simulate various points in different unit operations throughout the process. The NPV was measured after each unit operation was simulated to compare economics between varying values. A proposed design has been made to increase the NPV and make a recommendation for moving forward. This report focuses on the optimization strategies for the styrene production facility and recommendations for continuing with this process.

Recommended Citation

Espenan, Gregory, "Optimization of a Fluidized Bed Reactor for the Production of Styrene from Ethylbenzene" (2022). Honors Theses. 2577.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/2577

Accessibility Status

Searchable text