Optimization of Synthesis of Ethyl Acetate by Response Surface Method and Investigation of Reactive Sorption Effect of Hydrogel in Synthesis

Abstract

In this study, ethyl acetate synthesis is made from ethyl alcohol and acetic acid. Ethyl acetate is used as solvent and alternative fuel additive The synthesis was optimized by the surface response method. The effects of temperature, catalyst amount and reactant initial molar ratio on acid conversion in the reaction were investigated. Sulfo succinic acid was used as the catalyst. Conversion values were increased with increase in initial molar ratio, increase in catalyst amount, and increase in temperature. In this study, poly vinyl alcohol hydrogels were also prepared for reactive sorption application. Hydrogels were added to the reactor under certain operating conditions and used in the esterification reaction. It was observed that the conversion increased by using hydrogels together with catalyst. Ethyl acetate synthesis was optimized by using the student version of the Design Expert software. Optimization was made with the center composite design method by using response surface method. Quadratic model is proposed by the program. Experimental data and model data were found compatible with each other. Optimum values for conversion are variables that the temperature is 80 °C, the amount of catalyst is 1% and the initial molar ratio is 5. The highest conversion value of 89.35% could be achieved by the optimum values.