Intensification of Reactive Distillation for TAME Synthesis Based on the Analysis of Multiple Steady-State Conditions

Takehiro Yamaki,Duangkamol Na-Ranong,Hideyuki Matsumoto,Keigo Matsuda

doi:10.3390/pr6120241

Abstract

Our previous study reported that operation in multiple steady states contributes to an improvement in reaction conversion, making it possible to reduce the energy consumption of the reactive distillation process for tert-amyl methyl ether (TAME) synthesis. This study clarified the factors responsible for an improvement in the reaction conversion for operation in the multiple steady states of the reactive distillation column used in TAME synthesis. The column profiles for those conditions, in which multiple steady states existed and those in which they did not exist, were compared. The vapor and liquid flow rates with the multiple steady states were larger than those when the multiple steady states did not exist. The effect of the duty of the intermediate condenser, which was introduced at the top of the reactive section, on the liquid flow rate for a reflux ratio of 1 was examined. The amount of TAME production increased from 55.2 to 72.1 kmol/h when the intermediate condenser was operated at 0 to −5 MW. Furthermore, the effect of the intermediate reboiler duty on the reaction performance was evaluated. The results revealed that the liquid and vapor flow rates influenced the reaction and separation performances, respectively.

Highlights

In the chemical industry, high-efficiency reactions and separation processes are needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
This study focused on the profile of the reactive distillation column used for tert-amyl methyl ether (TAME) synthesis
The present study clarified the factors leading to an improvement in the reaction conversion during operation in multiple steady states for the reactive distillation column used for TAME synthesis

Summary

Introduction

High-efficiency reactions and separation processes are needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Reactive separation processes have attracted considerable attention given their high levels of efficiency [1]. Reactive distillation is one such reactive separation technology. Reactive distillation offers advantages such as energy and capital savings, increased reaction conversion, high selectivity, and utilization of the reaction heat [2]. Reactive distillation processes have been examined for application to esterification and etherification reactions [3,4,5,6].

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Conclusion