Modeling and Simulation of C8 Aromatics Adsorption Separation Process

A dynamic mixing cell model is developed based on analyzing the SMB ( simulated moving bed) adsorption industrial process for separation of C_8 aromatics. The mass transfer processes and equilibrium relation between concentrations of solid phase and liquid phase are described using mass transfer rate (equations) and linear equilibrium relation. The model is an equivalent counter-current model which treats the SMB process as true moving bed. Simulation results show its efficiency. An operator training system is (developed) with the adsorption model as a core to provide hands-on training for operators before the startups of PX (paraxylene) unit.