AbstractThe utility of using optimal input signals to improve the parametric information content in a transient experiment is explored. This work extends the statistical design concepts that have proven useful in steady state model building studies to a dynamic environment. The methodology is demonstrated for the identification of thermal transport properties in an adiabatic packed bed. The effects of the choice of measurements, initial parameter values and accuracies, and performance criteria are assessed. The results indicate that optimal dynamic experiments can offer considerable improvement over present practice.