The reactor forms the heart of most chemical processes. Industrial research often leads to the definition of mechanistic kinetic simulations to describe this unit operation. With proper consideration these models can be used for optimisation and control of industrial reactors. A reactor with heterogeneous catalyst is described in which a kinetic model was developed and adapted for real time optimisation and control. Process data are used for model parameter estimation and feedback. With proper specification of the optimisation function, the model controls similar reactors in different processes for more efficient process operation.