Shrinking horizon model predictive control applied to autoclave curing of composite laminate materials

Motivation for batch chemical reactor optimization and control is provided. Autoclave curing of composite laminate materials is defined as an important batch reactor example. Shrinking horizon model predictive control (SHMPC) is presented as a means of online batch reactor control. The autoclave curing process is illustrated for a specific miniature autoclave. Results from curing 112 composite laminates from Hercules 8551-7A fiberglass/epoxy prepreg, with variable manipulated inputs, are summarized. Quantification of off-line control and SHMPC of the autoclave curing process is then proposed as a concluding effort to this work.