Abstract:
First steps of the development of a catalytic reactive distillation process for the production of n-propyl acetate based on experiments and simulations are proposed. The kinetics for homogeneously (sulphuric acid) and heterogeneously (Amberlyst 15) catalysed reaction were investigated and the constants for a pseudo-homogeneous model are presented. Pilot plant experiments were performed using a homogeneous strong acid catalyst in a packed column. top-column decanter is used to withdraw the aqueous phase and to refux the organic phase. Simulation results are in good agreement with experimental data. Thermodynamics non idealities are taken into account using VLE and LLE NRTL interaction parameters. lcohol conversion and n-propyl acetate purity may be dramatically increased ust by adding to the pilot plant a stripping section in an additional column: six different confgurations are identifed to achieve such a production. The startup is studied in order to determine the best strategy to achieve steady-state conditions. The strong infuence of the composition of the initial charging in the decanter can be seen and an initial charging of the two-phase top product leads to the fastest startup
