Chemical Engineering Commons^™

A Study Of An Adiabatic Tubular Reactor For The Multiple Chlorination Of Methane, Richard L. Braun

Theses

A computer program has been developed which simulates the multiple chlorination of methane in an adiabatic, tubular reactor. Euler's method is used to approximate the solutions of the programs differential equations.

The program is designed to determine the amount of an inert diluent required in the feed stream to attain some specified conversion of methane in a safe and efficient temperature range. Particular emphasis is put on determining the amount of diluent required to attain 98% conversion of methane at an outlet temperature of 723°K. The program also determines the reactor volume necessary to achieve the specified conversion, and the …

The Steady State Heat And Temperature Distribution Of A Hot Sphere Within An Infinite Wedge, David W. Horwat

Theses

This thesis presents a mathematical model of the steady state heat and temperature distributions of a hot sphere located along the midplane of an infinitely long wedge of any arbitrary central angle. The heat and temperature distributions of this geometric configuration are of immense value, since through the use of this model as a wedge shaped unit cell the description of any number of hot spheres, arranged in a regular planar array can be immediately determined.

The method of reflections is used to solve Laplace's equation , V²T=O , analytically using the sphere and the wedge walls as …

The Study On The Soot Formation Of Hydrocarbon Flames, Yih-Jian Wu

Theses

Carbon formation during the quenching of low-pressure premixed hydrocarbon flames was studied using rapid-scanning optical and mass spectroscopy. Experimental techniques were developed and it was found that the tendency to form soot was a function of the hydrocarbon chain length. These results are relevant to the design of restartable space engines in which the use of hydrocarbon fuels is contemplated because the formation of soot in space will result in the formation of a shroud around the spacecraft which will adversely affect sensing by optical means.

Solvents Screening For Hydrocarbons Separation Of Close Molar Volumes, Dilip K. Kapasi

Theses

The approximate physical model for solute-solvent inter?actions presented by J, M, Prausnitz and R, Anderson¹ is briefly discussed, Applicability of Weimer, Prausnitz³ and Helpinstill, Van Winkle⁷ models is investigated using experimental values of activity coefficients for C₅ hydrocarbons in 13 solvents including one nonpolar and 12 polar solvents. Independent correlations, based on our experimental values at 45°C for normal and isopentane have been developed. Although the required thermodynamic properties are obtained through a comparative analysis of all the available and estimated methods, dependable values of activity coefficients for Isopentane and 1-Pentene could not be obtained through …

The Effect Of Dry-Blending High Density Polyethylene On Final Product Properties, Charles H. Klestadt

Theses

The incentives for Dry-Blending Polyethylenes of varying property type may be economic gain, improved product quality, or both. The manufacturers' latest mode of operation involves seeking to meet their customers' needs with a product line made by using one catalyst system and operating at maximum capacity, while varying the fewest possible control parameters. Off-spec materials and on-spec materials not fitting customers' requirements are two prime targets for additional profits with proper dry blending techniques. The approach used in solving the problem involved starting with an existing product line and converting these products into a number of experimental blends. The blends …

Optimal Performance Of Equilibrium Parametric Pumps, Joseph A. Manganaro

Theses

An examination of the conditions required to obtain the optimal performance of semicontinuous and continuous parametric pumps, defined by the achieving of the maximum possible solute free product for a given column height, was undertaken. The model system sodium nitrate ? water on an ion retardation resin adsorbate was employed. Equations defining maximum values of certain important parameters such as the bottom product flow rate and reservoir displacement rate were developed by extending previous theories of parametric pumping. Experimental runs were carried out using parameters whose values were both less than and greater than the maximum values predicted for optimal …

The Determination Of An Optimum Plant Capacity In A Dynamic Economy, Frederick Louis Monesmith

Theses

A. Monte Carlo computer program has been developed in which the optimum plant capacity is determined by comparing calculated profitability criterions for various plant capacities. The estimates for input variables are developed into probability distributions. This data is then used to calculate a probability distribution for a-profitability criterion. In this thesis approximately thirty input variables are developed into beta distributions. Each variable must be estimated with a ninety percent probability estimate, a most likely probability estimate and a ten percent probability estimate. The three level estimates for each variable completely describe the beta distribution. Approximately half of the beta distributions …

The Thermal Degradation Of Polyvinyl Alcohol, Carlos Eduardo Ortiz

Theses

The thermal degradation of polyvinyl alcohol has been investigated using mass spectrometry, differential thermal analysis, and infrared spectroscopy unlike previous investigators, formaldehyde and acrolein were not observed volatiles. In addition, acetic acid was observed, a product not reported previously.

Design Of Multipass Fractionating Trays, Paul W. Becker

Theses

Multipass fractionating trays are vapor-liquid contacting devices with high liquid handling capabilities which can be economically used in large fractionating towers. However, process design engineers in the chemical and petroleum industries seem to have an aversion to specifying multipass trays for their tower designs. This thesis presents the case for using multipass trays as well as methods for their design.

Because multipass trays are not symmetrical, as one and two pass trays are, the liquid and vapor need not split equally between the three or four passes. Equations are developed which enable the vapor and liquid flowrate for each pass …

Absorption Of Methoxyflurane By Conductive Rubber And Polyethylene Anesthetic Hose, Edward A. Kippel

Theses

This thesis presents the results of an investigation into the absorption of methoxyflurane by conductive rubber and polyethylene anesthetic hose. Previous studies are reviewed and theoretical considerations governing the diffusion process are discussed.

Diffusion coefficients are calculated for commercially available hose materials using different anesthetic concentrations and oxygen flow rates.

Data obtained is compared with the results of previous investigations (primarily concerned with sorption into rubber hose) and similar results are presented for polyethylene hose.

Graphical data is used to demonstrate the effect of hose material on inspired anesthetic concentration.

The advantage of disposable conductive polyethylene hose over reusable rubber …

An Experimental Study Of The Separation Of Multicomponent Mixtures Via Thermal Parametric Pumping, Wayne Weywen Lin

Theses

A thermal continuous parametric pump for separating multi-component mixtures was experimentally investigated using the model system toluene-aniline-n-heptane on silica gel adsorbent. A simple method for predicting separations is presented and is found to be in good agreement with the experimental results. The method, based on an equilibrium theory, is under the assumption that a multicomponent mixture contains a series of pseudo-binary systems, each system consisting of one of the solutes as one component and the common inert solvent as the other component.

Densities Of Polar And Non-Polar Compounds And Their Mixtures, Peter Norman Notwick

Theses

Two principal studies were conducted as part of this thesis: evaluation of existing correlations for predicting densities of polar and non-polar liquids and their mixtures and experimentally measuring the densities of certain liquid systems.

Utilizing a modification of the simple picnometer experimental method, data were obtained for both pure compounds and liquid mixtures. Comparison of the pure compound data with available literature sources established the reliability of the technique.

The results of the correlation comparison indicate that the Riedel equation, is the most generally reliable for predicting the densities of pure "normal" compounds. Lydersen, et al., prepared tables for the …

Solvent Recovery From A Complex Process Solvent Stream, John Budavari

Theses

This work deals with the recovery of solvents from a complex process waste stream containing methylene chloride chloroform, n-propyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, heptane and butyl acetate. In addition to the above-mentioned solvents, the mixture is saturated with water (ca. 1%), hydrochloric acid, and contains organic and inorganic process impurities. The objective was to develop the simplest economical recovery process utilizing vapor-liquid equilibrium data, distillation and extraction procedures. Considerable effort was expended to develop precise and reliable assay methods. A process which met the necessary requirements of maximum solvent recovery with minimum waste disposal, was developed.

Reactions Of Perchloro-1,2-Dimethylene Cyclobutane With Amines, Robert James Smith

Theses

Perchloro-1,2-dimethylene cyclobutane was reacted with primary amines forming cyclic amidinium salts. Their structures were elucidated by the performance of various spectral analyses.

An Experimental Study Of Parametric Pump, Khalid Omar Ranginwala

Theses

In this research for Master's Project, the possibility for separation of glucose and fructose by parametric pumping was investigated. In this research activated carbon was used as adsorbent. First Langmuir's isotherms for glucose and fructose were experimentally found. These results were utilized in the thermal parametric pumping. The pump was run semicontinuously. Parametric pumping was also carried out with KCl +H₂O solution using a resin as adsorbent, and the 'b' value of KCl was found.

An Experimental Study Of Equilibrium Parametric Pumps, John A. Park

Theses

Parametric pumping is a separation process characterized by periodic changes in axial displacement, coupled with synchronized changes in some variable affecting the position of the interphase equilibrium. Both continuous and semicontinuous pumps were investigated at various operating conditions using a model system of toluene-n-hep-tane on a silica gel adsorbent. It has been shown that when the penetration distance for the cold cycle is less than or equal to that for the hot cycle and the height of the column, the pump has the capacity of complete removal of solute from one product stream. A quantity which is important in determining …

A Study Of Fluid Flow Entering A Sharp-Edged Channel, Rocco Racano

Theses

Experimental investigations were carried out on an newtonian fluid In the two dimensional case through the regions of a sharp-edged entrance and exit. Qualitative and quantitative results were compared to a variation of a two dimensional case of converging flow in a capillary as originally derived by Oka and proposed by Philippoff. In addition velocity profiles were taken in the entrance region. Furthermore, the effect of temperature gradients in the slit region with their resulting optical effects were considered. The methods used to obtain these goals were photoelasticity and streak photography.

Results were four, to be consistent with the theory …

Separation Of Gas Mixtures Via Batch Parametric Pumping : A Theoretical Study, Jose G. Lopez

Theses

An equilibrium plug?flow model, for the batch isothermal separation of a binary gas mixture in a pressure changing parametric pump, was investigated for the system propane?argon on carbon, with the aid of a G. E. Pack 4020 computer. Separation factors comparable to a temperature changing parametric pump are predicted by the model. A change in pressure of the gas mixture may be carried out very rapidly, compared with a temperature change of similar magnitude. The effects of temperature, pressure, concentration, and penetration are discussed.

The Effect Of Variation In The Ratio Of Specific Heats With Temperature And Pressure On Horsepower Requirements Of Reciprocating Compressors, Selim Piskin

Theses

The expansion and compression of fluids is discussed in relation to the design of reciprocating compressors. As part of this thesis, the design equations for reciprocating compressors are developed for both ideal and reel gases.

The resulting design equations contain, as one of the parameters, the ratio of the specific heats. Using published componential specific heat data, a correlation was developed relating the dependence of the ratio of specific heat on temperature and pressure for the nore common gases. These correlations were developed so as to be compatible with the compressor design equation and to provide rapid evaluation of the …

A Computer Solution For Absorbers And Strippers Using The Newton-Raphson Iterative Method, Robert J. Lukach

Theses

The solution of absorber or stripper calculations by traditional methods can be a tedious, time consuming, if not a completely fruitless procedure. Hence a computer solution of these calculations is both desirable and, as the complexity of chemical process plants increases, necessary.

The component oriented Newton-Raphson procedure was programed to perform this calculation, and makes full use of the material and enthalpy balance equations to perform the iterative equilibrium stage calculations. A Newton-Raphson stage oriented method was also developed as a verification program to check the solutions obtained from the Newton-Raphson component oriented procedure.

Computer Simulation Of A Split Feed Claus Sulfur Recovery Plant, Thomas R. Woolley

Theses

A computer program which calculates a complete heat and material balance around a "split feed" Claus sulfur recovery plant was written in Fortran IV for the RCA Spectra 70 computer. The program provides for up to three catalytic reactors, the hot gas bypass method of reheating, and a feed gas containing hydrogen sulfide, water vapor, hydrogen, and nitrogen. The program user specifies as input data the feed stream composition and temperature, the number of reactors, the combustion air temperature, the conversion in each reactor, the outlet temperature in each condenser, and the fraction of burner exit gas used for reheating …

Distillation Design Techniques, Ronald Michael Carlucci

Theses

A design method for binary distillation systems is presented that minimizes the required rigorous calculations. A computer program is developed that finds the number of theoretical stages, and feed stage for a specified separation and reboiler vapor rate. Results for three binary systems are presented.

The design method and computer program are extended to the multicomponent case at the condition of total reflux. Results for one ternary system are presented. The possibility of using the method at other than total reflux is discussed. Usage of the method to search for multicomponent azeotropes and results are also presented.

Analytic equations are …

Antoine Type Equation For Liquid Viscosity Correlations, Edward Goletz Jr.

Theses

A modified Andrade⁴ equation, similar to the Antoine equation for vapor pressure-temperature correlations, was developed for liquid viscosity-temperature correlations. Included in the investigation were the following compounds: n-alkanes (C₂-C₂₀), n-alkenes (C₂-C₂₀), n-alkyl benzenes (C₆-C₁₀), n-alkyl cyclohexanes (C₆-C₂₂), and fifteen polar compounds. Except for propene, errors of less than 5% were obtained. Normal heptadecane was used to compare correlations developed by Andrade⁴, Walther²⁰, and Doolittle⁹, with the modified Andrade equation. The latter was found to give the best …

A Theoretical Study Of Continuous Parametric Pumping At Constant Temperature, Philip Weingartner

Theses

A continuous parametric pump, operating at constant temperature with pressure as the driving force, is analyized by means of an equilibrium theory. A thorough explanation of the process and the resulting mathematical model reveal how the parameters effect pump performance. The experimental data cited agree well with the analytical results in the CO₂-He on silica gel system. Complete removal of the solute from one of the product streams can be achieved through the proper selection of penetration distances and pressure levels.

The Quantitative Characterization Of Middle Distillate Fuels For Reduced Smoke Emission And Improved Low Temperature Operability, R. S. Feamster

Theses

Forty-eight inference equations are presented to approximate the hydrocarbon composition of middle distillate fuels and of the solids separating from these fuels at temperatures below their cloud points by consideration of fuel physical inspections. The physical inspections consist of API gravity, aniline point, cloud point, and distillation curves for ten fuels from major United States and European refineries. To determine the percentage of solids separating from cooled fuels, each fuel is filtered over a temperature range from the cloud point to -40 F in 10 F increments. Aromatic, naphthenic, and paraffinic hydrocarbon contents and the r-paraffin carbon number distributions of …

Stress-Relaxation Of Cross-Linked Polyethylene At Elevated Temperature, Ravio Luik

Theses

Polyethylene because of its excellent chemical, physical, mechanical and electrical properties, as well as its easy adaptability to extrusion, molding and other processes and its low cost has become a very widely used material for hundreds of applications. But, because it is a thermoplastic, it also deforms and flows when temperatures approach or exceed the crystalline melting point. This handicap, however, can be reduced by crosslinking the polymer chains and thereby converting the thermoplastic to a thermoset material. To further expand the possible uses of this popular material and to further improve the properties, fillers and antioxidants may be compounded …

The Photolysis Of Chlorobenzene In An Aqueous Environment, Louis John Del Tufo

Theses

Chlorobenzene was chosen as a model system for the study of photochemically induced reactions in an aqueous environment. It was the goal of this research to achieve a reaction system which best approximates conditions existing in the environment. To do this, a basic model system was established, and then the effect on the rate by various parameters was studied. These parameters, which included the presence of oxygen and such inorganic compounds as might be present in receiving waters, (e.g. nitrate, sulfate, and phosphate), were chosen so as to meet the goal of this research.

Kinetic data was obtained for seven …

Kinetic Modeling Study Of Catalytic Hydrogenation Of Codimer, William Mounce

Theses

A kinetic modeling study was made on a gas phase catalytic reaction. The data used was that on the hydrogenation of codimer, collected by Tschernitz, et al, The objective was to determine if non-linear least squares regression offers an advantage over linear least squares regression in discriminating between Langmuir. Hinshelwood kinetic equations.

For the experimental data in question, it was found that neither linear nor non-linear regression could distinguish between the two plausible mechanisms. With the particular mechanistic equations and range of data used in this study, the more laborious non-linear analysis offered no advantage over linear regression in discriminating …

Separation Of Glucose - Fructose - Water Systems Via Thermal Parametric Pumping, Zikri Mostafa Ahmed

Theses

Series of experiments were carried out to determine the effect of different factors on adsorption from aqueous solutions of sugar using fuller's earth ( LW 16-30 Mesh ) as an adsorbent. The equilibrium data were fitted to the Langmuir's equation., and an explanation for the deviation of some of these data has been given.

Systems of glucose-fructose and water mixtures were subjected to semi-continuous and continuous parametric pumping operations using activated carbon (400 Filterasorb) as an adsorbent. The results obtained confirm the equilibrium theory of the parametric pump and essentially fulfill the requirements established by Chen and Hill (6) to …

Sidestream Tower Fractionation : A Short-Cut Calculation Method, Richard David Prickett

Theses

A short-cut procedure has been developed for making calculations on a complex fractionation tower. A Simplification of the Thiele-Geddes plate-to-plate procedure provided the basis for the short-cut procedure. The application discussed in this paper is for a tower with a liquid sidestream drawoff in the rectifying section.

The tower was broken at the feed point and sidestream drawoff locations into three calculation sections. The fractionation in each tower section can then be represented by a rigorous series solution expressed in terms of absorption or stripping factors. These rigorous equations can then be simplified by the use of average absorption or …