The Use of Powell's Conjugate Gradient Minimization Method for Computing Concentration Profiles in Multicornponent and Multistage Separation Systems

Concentration profiles in multicomponent and multistage separation systems can be computed by using a continuous or a stagewise model. The numerical calculations are iterative, and fast convergence is achieved when Powell’s conjugate gradient minimization method is used. The procedure developed in the present work was implemented on thermal diffusion separation systems for oxygen and krypton isotopes. Although the technique was developed with special emphasis on isotope separation problems, it is also applicable to other multicomponent and multistage separation processes.