The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the use of advanced linear controller design methods foran industrial scale reactive distillation column. The open-loop analysis of the process behavior indicates that linear control of the process is promising. Therefore, a control structure selection is made by an analysis of the physical behavior of the system and a RGA-analysis. Afterwards a frequency response approximation technique is used for the design of linear MIMO-controllers. Robustness of the closed loop is observed during the controller design. Finally, the controller is tested on the nonlinear process model. Copyright© 2001 IFAC