Computer-Aided Framework for the Design of Freeze-Drying Cycles: Optimization of the Operating Conditions of the Primary Drying Stage

This paper deals with the freeze-drying process and, in particular, with the optimization of the operating conditions of the primary drying stage. When designing a freeze-drying cycle, process control aims at obtaining the values of the operating conditions (temperature of the heating fluid and pressure in the drying chamber) resulting in a product temperature lower than the limit value of the product, and in the shortest drying time. This is particularly challenging, mainly due to the intrinsic nonlinearity of the system. In this framework, deep process knowledge is required for deriving a suitable process dynamic model that can be used to calculate the design space for the primary drying stage. The design space can then be used to properly design (and optimize) the process, preserving product quality. The case of a product whose dried layer resistance, one of the key model parameters, is affected by the operating conditions is addressed in this paper, and a simple and effective method to calculate the design space in this case is presented and discussed.