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Operating Parameters And Selectivity In Batch Reactive Distillation, W. Qi, M. F. Malone

Michael F. Malone

This Article provides new predictions for selectivity in batch reactive distillation, identifying the reflux or reboil ratio and a Damkhler number (Da) as the key operating parameters. The dimensionless Da incorporates the influence of liquid holdup, vapor rate, and rate of reaction. Example results for a system of serial isomerization reactions and for the synthesis of ethylene glycol are provided. The results show that selectivity improvements in BRD are limited for high values of Da or for high values of the reflux or reboil ratio and that selectivity is enhanced as Da or reflux or reboil ratio is decreased. However, …