Model for a cascade continuous epoxidation process

A steady-state mathematical model was developed to analyze the performance of a cascade continuous epoxidation process that was applied to the epoxidation of unsaturated compounds with in-situ-formed performic acid. The model equations were nonlinear, and the model prediction was calculated by solving the model equations using a numerical solution procedure. The experimental results supported the model prediction in that good agreement between the model predictions and experimental results was achieved. The model is necessary for precise operation control, process estimation, and operating parameter optimization and regulation, and will provide a theoretical foundation and research method for automatic control and engineering scale-up.