(54e) Improved Prediction of Alkyd Reactors Via Infrequent-Delayed Observations

Engr. Dr. Uzoh, Chigozie Francolins, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka

Due to lack of detailed kinetic model, the alkyd resin polymerization reactor problem has been a subject of extensive theoretical, simulation and experimental studies, given the demand of processes with better compromises between safety, productivity and quality, and the development of control methods. The problem of alkyd reactor polycondensation kinetics problems has been addressed. This was enhanced through a novel mechanistic approach and discrete-delayed measurements. The predictor provides adequate empirical-analytical basis for evaluating and operating alkyd batch reactor based on the present performance in order to monitor, control, correct the reactor and ensure prompt termination of the batch such that the final product quality index is maintained within specification. The current proposal considers modification of the existing models to include certain adjustable parameters whose values must be computed numerically such that the error measured between the actual and the predicted results are adequately minimized. The new approach was tested and validated in a reasonable number of reactions under realistic conditions. The results were found to be more reliable than the conventional approaches. Further detailed comparison of the results achieved through the error dynamics and RMSE revealed a significant overall improvement in the studied reactor calibration problems.

Recent Publications

1. 1. Uzoh, C. F., Onukwuli, O. D., 2016. Improved Prediction of Alkyd Reactors via Infrequent Delayed Observations. Chemical Engineering Research and Design, 117 pg 168-176. DOI: 10.1016/j.cherd.2016.10.016. Elsevier.
2. 2. Uzoh, C. F., Onukwuli, O. D., 2016. Optimal prediction of PKS: RSO modified alkyd resin polycondensation process using discrete-delayed observations, ANN and RSM-GA techniques. Journal of Coating Technology and Research. DOI 10.1007/s11998-016-9881-6. Springer
3. 3. Uzoh, C. F., Onukwuli, O. D., 2016. Investigating the optimum unsaturated fatty acid content and oil length for auto-oxidative drying of palm-stearin-based alkyd resin. Progress in Organic Coating, 101 pg 71-80. Elservier.

1. Uzoh C. F., Onukwuli O. D., 2016. Application of sinusoidal function and a 2^5-1 fractional factorial array in the kinetics and optimization study of gmelina seed oil modified alkyd resin synthesis. Chemical Product and Process Modeling. DOI: 10.1515/cppm-2016-0003. De Gruyter.
2. Uzoh, C. F., Onukwuli, O. D., Odera, R. S., Ofochebe, S., 2013. Optimization of polyesterification process for production of palm oil modified alkyd resin using response surface methodology. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering. 777-785. Elservier.
3. 6. Uzoh C. F., Onukwuli O. D., 2016. A surrogate model for acid functional group conversion in alkyd reactor. South African Journal of Chemical Engineering. Elsevier.
4. Uzoh C.F., Onukwuli O.D., Madiebo Emeka, 2015. Kinetics of Castor Oil Alkyd Resin Polycondensation Reaction. Journal of Chemical Engineering and Process Technology

Biography

Engr. Dr. Uzoh, Chigozie Francolins is a Lecturer, Researcher and Chemical Engineer with expertise in Polymer Chemistry and Process System Engineering/Optimization. He has B.Eng, M.Eng and PhD in Chemical Engineering. He is a very dynamic and skilled researcher with excellent analytical and problem solving skills and strong aptitude for conducting research related to our current needs. He has used experimental process design and simulation to demonstrate sustainable production route powered by materials of regenerative resources. He has contributed tremendously to a broad understanding of novel polymeric materials for coatings applications. His impressive publication record includes numerous peer-reviewed articles in different ISI indexed journals, book chapter, and a number of presentations at important international conferences. He is extensively cited and has also formed the basis for a number of industrial and academic collaborations.

Email: cf.uzoh@unizik.edu.ng