Evolutionary multi-objective optimization based comparison of multi-column chromatographic separation processes for a ternary separation.

Performance characteristics of two advanced multi-column chromatographic separation processes with discontinuous feed, Multi-Column Recycling Chromatogrphy (MCRC) and Japan Organo (JO), were investigated for a ternary separation using multi-objective optimization with an evolutionary algorithm. Conventional batch process was used as a reference. Fractionation of a concentrated acid hydrolysate of wood biomass into sulfuric acid, monosaccharide, and acetic acid fractions was used as a model system. Comparison of the separation processes was based on selected performance parameters in their optimized states. Flow rates and step durations were taken as decision variables whereas the column configuration and dimensions were fixed. The MCRC process was found to be considerably more efficient than the other processes with respect to eluent consumption. The batch process gave the highest productivity and the JO process the lowest. Both of the multi-column processes gave significantly higher monosaccharide yield than the batch process. When eluent consumption and monosaccharide yield are taken into account together with productivity, the MCRC process was found to be the most efficient in the studied case.