1 Modelling of Biodiesel Production Marianne Øien Supervisors: Sigurd Skogestad and Chriss Grimholt

2 Agenda Project description Work done Model validation Further work

3 Project description Created a model for biodiesel production by plug flow reactor Validation of model Learn Simulink Renewable energy sources

4 Flow scheme

5 Simulink model Ten CSTRs in series for plug flow reactor Settling tank for buffer effect and separation Distillation between biodiesel and methanol Flash of methanol from glycerol

6 Operating condition Soyabean oil, assumed one component for simplicity 60 0 C 100% excess methanol NaOH catalyst

7 Model validation Single units and system Change in flowrate Disturbance in feed composition and methanol excess New product requirements in purity

8 Reaction Chemistry

9 Reactor validation Removal of methanol in feed No conversion Change through reactors

10 Settling tank response Increased biodiesel fraction upstream Smooth out disturbance downstream Total flow conserved

11 System disturbance Application of 10% flow disturbance Smooth output disturbance Excess methanol reflected in vapour and liquid flow

12 Further work Include industrial size, amounts and data –Optimal flows for nominal operation –Tuning and control –Industrial expected disturbances Reducing computation time More complex validation cases

13 Questions? Thank you for your attention!