Analytical Solutions and Stability Analysis of a Fractional-Order Open-Loop CSTR Model for PMMA Polymerization

This study examines the asymptotic stability of a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) used for poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) polymerisation, utilizing nonlinear fractional-order mathematical models. By applying Taylor series and Laplace transform techniques analytically and incorporating real plant data, we focus exclusively on the chemical reaction effects in the kinetic constants, disregarding mass transport phenomena. Our results confirm that fractional derivatives significantly enhance the stability and performance of dynamic models compared to traditional integer-order approaches. Specifically, we analyze the stability of a linearized fractional-order system at steady state, demonstrating that the system maintains asymptotic stability within feasible operational limits. Variations in the fractional order reveal distinct impacts on stability regions and system performance, with optimal values leading to improved monomer conversion, polymer concentration, and weight-average molecular weight. Comparative analyses between fractional- and integer-order models show that fractional-order operators broaden stability regions and enable precise tuning of process variables. These findings underscore the efficiency gains achievable through fractional differential equations in polymerisation reactors, positioning fractional calculus as a powerful tool for optimizing CSTR-based polymer production.