Abstract - Daoutides - 9320402 Chemical engineering processes are inherently nonlinear and multivariable, and are typically modeled by coupled differential and algebraic equations (DAEs). The differential equations arise from dynamic conservation equations, while the algebraic equations arise from thermodynamic equilibrium relations, empirical constitutive equations, closure conditions, quasi-steady-state assumptions, etc. For many chemical processes, the algebraic equations are implicit and singular in nature and do not allow the direct reduction of the process model to one consisting of pure differential equations. The objective of this research is to develop a comprehensive framework for the analysis and control of nonlinear multivariable DAE systems. A state-space methodology framework will be adopted for this purpose and nonlinear analysis and synthesis tools will be used. Fundamental insight on the nature of the control problem will be obtained and general control methods will be developed. Software tools will also be developed and used for the application of the methods to representative chemical reaction and separation processes.
