Conceptual Design of Reactive Distillation Columns

The state-of-the-art can be found in the monograph edited by Sundmacher and Kienle [16], as well as in the books of Doherty and Malone [8], Stichlmair and Fair [14], The case study referring to the manufacturing of fatty esters presents a practical approach to the design of reactive-distillation columns. 

The synthesis of separations can be handled by means of a systematic approach. 

The first separation step is essential, since it allows the decomposition into smaller problems for gas, liquid and solid subsystems. For each subsystem the strategy consists of generating a feasible quasioptimal separation sequence based on the identification of tasks and the assessment of suitable separation techniques. The decomposition in separation tasks can be managed by means of logical selectors. 

The assignment of tasks is based on the detection of a characteristic property among components. The split generation process is supported by the use of heuristics. 

Combining chemical reaction and separation in a reactive-distillation device, can lead to significant economic advantage in term of investment and operation costs. Because the chemical driving force can be lowered by vapor-liquid equilibrium, this should be compensated by a more active catalyst. 

---

Melles S., Grievink J. and Schrans S.M. (2000). Optimization of the conceptual design of reactive distillation columns. Chemical Engineering Science 55, 2089-2097. 3.2.4, 6.1.3... 

---