Optimization of dynamic bioethanol production from the oil palm trunk

Abstract

This study concerning the bioethanol production process and its optimization plays an
essential role in purification. A simulation of the production of bioethanol was carried out using the
Aspen Plus software version 11. The design of the experiments involved Response Surface
Methodology (RSM). The Design-Expert software version 12 (trial) can generate an optimal value
capable of lowering the levels of emitted carbon dioxide, minimizing utility expenses, and enhancing
the daily quantity of ethanol produced. It was confirmed that the model equation was acceptable for
the ethanol mass flow, utility expenses, carbon dioxide emissions, and % purity of ethanol with a
95% confidence level and achieving an R-squared value prediction of 0.95-1.00. Application of the
optimal values would result in lower utility expenses by 0.96%, a carbon dioxide emission reduction
of 1.10%, and increase in the % purity of ethanol of 9.20%, and a rise in the quantity of ethanol of
3.20%. The system dynamics were then examined to determine the optimal conditions. The
parameters used for the controller are control of the column pressure, control of the column base
level, and control of the reflux drum level. These parameters can provide rapid system stabilization,
thereby ensuring the product meets the specifications.