Method for forming striped fluid, method for producing chemical substance, and device for forming striped fluid

Abstract

In order to provide a technique capable of more easily forming a slug flow, one aspect of the present invention provides a method (M1) for forming a striped fluid, which alternately repeats an introduction step (S11) for forming a flow of two or more types of fluid by introducing the two or more types of fluid into a flow path together, and a forming step (S12) for forming a flow of the two or more types of fluid by introducing the two or more types of fluid into the flow path together. And a formation step (S12) for forming a stripe-shaped fluid in which two or more phases comprising each of the two or more fluids are alternately arranged in the longitudinal direction of the flow path by setting the flow rates of the two or more fluids in the flow path to substantially 0 mL / min at the same time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for forming a stripe-shaped fluid, a method for preparing a chemical substance, and a device for forming a stripe-shaped fluid. Background Art

[0002] In the preparation process of chemical substances, slug flows, in which two or more phases flow alternately along the length of a flow path, are sometimes used for the purpose of uneven reaction, extraction, and separation. As a technique for generating slug flows, for example, Patent Document 1 describes a slug flow generating device comprising: a fluid storage portion for storing a plurality of fluids; a pump for continuously pumping the plurality of fluids; a flow path connecting the plurality of fluid storage portions to the pumps and the pumps to a fluid confluence; and a slug flow generating flow path disposed downstream of the fluid confluence. Valves are provided in the flow path between the fluid confluence and the pump, and the valves are used to control the flow path so that one fluid is continuously pumped into the fluid confluence while the remaining fluids are discharged into a discharge flow path.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-13422 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The technology described in Patent Document 1 can form a slug flow with a large flow rate, but on the other hand, it has a problem that a complex device structure is essential.

[0008] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide a technique for more easily forming a slug flow.

[0009] Means used to solve problems

[0010] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention involves a method for forming a striped fluid, which alternately and repeatedly implements an introduction process and a formation process. The introduction process forms the flow of the two or more fluids that are immiscible with each other by introducing them into the flow path together; the formation process forms the striped fluid by making the flow rate of each of the two or more fluids in the flow path substantially 0 mL / min at the same time. The striped fluid is a fluid formed by alternatingly arranging two or more phases respectively composed of the two or more fluids along the length direction of the flow path.

[0011] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, one aspect of the present invention relates to a striped fluid forming device, which comprises: two or more containers for storing two or more mutually immiscible fluids respectively; a flow path connected to the two or more containers; a pump for pressurizing the two or more fluids to the flow path respectively; and a control unit; wherein the control unit is configured to: cause the striped fluid forming device to perform an introduction process, a formation process, and a process for causing the striped fluid forming device to alternately and repeatedly perform the introduction process and the formation process, wherein the introduction process forms a flow of the two or more fluids by introducing the two or more fluids into the flow path together; and the formation process forms a striped fluid by making the flow rate of each of the two or more fluids in the flow path substantially 0 mL / min at the same time, wherein the striped fluid is a fluid formed by alternatingly arranging two or more phases respectively composed of the two or more fluids along the length direction of the flow path.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, slug flow can be formed more easily. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 This is a flowchart showing the flow of a method for forming a streak-shaped fluid according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 2 Schematic diagrams showing the relationship between the temporal change in flow rate and the state of the fluid in the flow path in a method for forming a striped fluid according to one embodiment of the present invention. (a) is a diagram showing the temporal change in flow rate. (b) shows the state of the fluid in the flow path during the first introduction step shown in (a). (c) shows the state of the fluid in the flow path during the first formation step shown in (a). (d) shows the state of the fluid in the flow path during the next introduction step shown in (a). (e) shows the state of the fluid in the flow path during the next formation step shown in (a).

[0016] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a device for forming a streak-shaped fluid according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] [Concept of the Invention]

[0018] When utilizing slug flow in industrial applications, in order to increase the amount of chemical substances processed, a large flow rate of slug flow is often desired. The formation of a large flow rate of slug flow usually requires increasing the flow rate of each of the two or more fluids forming the slug flow. However, if the flow rate of the two or more fluids is increased, the dynamic control of the two or more fluids in the confluence will become difficult. Specifically, if two or more fluids are introduced into the confluence at the same time, the fluid discharged from the confluence will form a slug flow in the flow path located downstream of the confluence immediately after the introduction begins. However, if the fluid temporarily forms a parallel flow in the confluence due to unstable dynamics, then when it is discharged from the confluence, the parallel flow state will be maintained and stabilized. To avoid this situation, in the technology of Patent Document 1, a valve located upstream of the confluence is switched at high speed so that only one fluid is introduced into the confluence. However, for high-speed control of the valve, a complex device structure is essential.

[0019] The inventors have discovered that even if a fluid forms parallel flow, stopping the flow will cause the fluid to change its form from parallel flow to streaky flow within the flow path. Furthermore, they discovered that even if a streaky flow temporarily forms within the flow path and becomes flowing again, it does not easily return to parallel flow, instead forming a slug flow. These phenomena are hypothesized to be caused by the following principle: friction occurs between the temporarily formed parallel flow and the inner wall at the confluence, and this friction is particularly high at the phase boundary between the two fluids. Therefore, to prevent the formation of a phase boundary at the portion of the fluid in contact with the inner wall, the parallel flow state is maintained and stabilized. On the other hand, when the flow stops, since there is no friction, the surface tension, which acts to minimize the contact area between the two fluids, dominates over friction, causing the parallel flow to change into a streaky flow. Furthermore, once the streaky flow temporarily forms within the flow path, it will be subject to friction again. However, unlike at a confluence in an unstable state, the pressure applied unilaterally along the flow direction in the flow path dominates over friction, preventing the streaky flow from changing its form and allowing it to flow as a slug flow.

[0020] As mentioned above, to achieve high-flow slug flow, it is generally necessary to investigate how to increase the flow rates of the two or more fluids forming the slug flow. However, the present inventors discovered that by reversing the concept and reducing the flow rates to essentially zero, a streak-like flow, a precursor to slug flow, can be formed, leading to the present invention.

[0021] 〔Striation-like fluid〕

[0022] In this specification, a striped fluid refers to a fluid in which two or more phases composed of two or more fluids are arranged alternately along the length direction of the flow path. For example, a fluid in which a phase composed of a first fluid A and a phase composed of a second fluid B are arranged in the order of A, B, A, B, ... is a striped fluid. The number of fluids constituting a striped fluid may also be three or more. For example, a fluid in which a phase composed of a first fluid A, a phase composed of a second fluid B, and a phase composed of a third fluid C are arranged in the order of A, B, C, A, B, C, ... is a striped fluid. In a striped fluid, as long as adjacent phases are not composed of the same fluid, the arrangement order of the phases is not particularly limited. For example, a fluid in which phases such as A, B, A, C, B, A, ... are arranged in an irregular order is also a striped fluid.

[0023] The "striated fluid" may be in a state of flowing in the flow path or in a state of not flowing in the flow path and being stopped. In this specification, the streak-shaped fluid in a state of flowing in the flow path may be referred to as a "slug flow".

[0024] [Method for forming a streak-like fluid]

[0025] One aspect of the present invention relates to a method for forming a striped fluid, which alternately and repeatedly implements an introduction process and a formation process. The introduction process forms the flow of two or more fluids by introducing two or more mutually immiscible fluids into a flow path together; the formation process forms the striped fluid by making the flow rate of each of the two or more fluids in the flow path substantially 0 mL / min at the same time. The striped fluid is a fluid formed by alternating two or more phases composed of two or more fluids along the length direction of the flow path.

[0026] Below, we will refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 A method M1 for forming a streak-shaped fluid according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 This is a flowchart showing the flow of a method M1 for forming a streak-shaped fluid according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 Schematic diagram showing the relationship between the temporal change in flow rate and the state of the fluid in the flow path 11 in the method M1 for forming a streak-shaped fluid according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 (a) is a graph showing the temporal change of flow rate. Figure 2 (b) means Figure 2 (a) shows the state of the fluid in the flow path 11 during the initial introduction step S11. Figure 2 (c) means Figure 2 (a) shows the state of the fluid in the flow path 11 during the initial forming step S12. Figure 2 (d) means Figure 2(a) shows the state of the fluid in the flow path 11 during the next introduction step S11. Figure 2 (e) means Figure 2 (a) shows the state of the fluid in the flow path 11 during the next forming step S12.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the forming method M1 alternately repeats the introduction step S11 and the forming step S12. As described below, in the forming method M1, a streak-shaped fluid F is formed in the forming step S12, and then in the subsequent introduction step S11, the streak-shaped fluid F is made to flow in the flow path to form a slug flow.

[0028] 〔Introduction process〕

[0029] The introduction step S11 is a step of introducing two or more mutually immiscible fluids into the flow path 11 together to form a flow of the two or more fluids.

[0030] (fluid)

[0031] In one aspect of the present invention, the two or more fluids are not particularly limited as long as they are immiscible with each other. In addition, the fluids may be two fluids or three or more fluids. The two or more fluids are each independently liquid or gas.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown in Figure (b), in this embodiment, the number of fluids forming the striped fluid is two, a combination of a first fluid A and a second fluid B. Without limitation, the first fluid A can be water or an aqueous solution, and the second fluid can be a hydrophobic organic liquid. In this case, a liquid-liquid striped fluid F is formed, formed by an arrangement of an aqueous phase consisting of the first fluid A and an organic phase consisting of the second fluid B.

[0033] Examples of aqueous solutions include aqueous hydrochloric acid, ammonium chloride, potassium hydrogensulfate, citric acid, sodium thiosulfate, sodium hydrogencarbonate, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, and sodium chloride. Examples of hydrophobic organic liquids include 4-methyltetrahydropyran (MTHP), cyclopentyl methyl ether (CPME), chloroform, dimethylformamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, diethyl ether, diisopropyl ether, tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, 1,4-dioxane, methyl-tert-butyl ether, ethyl acetate, isopropyl acetate, dichloromethane, toluene, xylene, hexane, heptane, and cyclohexane.

[0034] As a variation, the two or more fluids may be a combination of a first fluid, a second fluid, and a third fluid, wherein the first fluid is water or an aqueous solution, the second fluid is a hydrophobic organic liquid, and the third fluid is a gas. Examples of aqueous solutions and hydrophobic organic liquids are as described above. Examples of gases include nitrogen and carbon dioxide.

[0035] Furthermore, two or more fluids may each independently contain a solute. Examples of solutes include peptides and surfactants.

[0036] (Flow path)

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown in (b), in this embodiment, the flow path 11 is a cylindrical tube-type flow path having an inner diameter D and a length L. In one aspect of the present invention, the flow path 11 is not limited thereto, as long as it has a structure that prevents fluid from leaking from the flow path 11. The flow path 11 may be, for example, a tubular flow path with completely covered circumferential sides, or a U-shaped flow path with an opening on the upper surface. The cross-section obtained by cutting the flow path 11 in a direction perpendicular to the length L may be of any shape, for example, circular or rectangular.

[0038] As the inner diameter D of flow path 11, it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. The inner diameter D of flow path 11 is preferably more than 0.8mm, more preferably more than 1.0mm. Within this range, the larger the inner diameter D is, the more it can play the effect of improving the separability of two or more fluids in the recovery container. In addition, the inner diameter D is preferably less than 8.0mm, more preferably less than 4.5mm. Within this range, the smaller the inner diameter D is, the more it can play the effect of accelerating the circulation speed of the phase fluid constituting the striped fluid and increasing the material exchange between the phases. In addition, when the cross section of flow path 11 is non-circular such as a rectangle, preferably, the cross section of flow path 11 has a cross-sectional area equivalent to a circle, and the circle refers to a circle with the inner diameter D within the above-mentioned preferred range.

[0039] The inner diameter D of the flow path 11 can be appropriately adjusted depending on the type of fluid, the material of the flow path 11, the performance of the pump that pressurizes the fluid, etc. For example, when the fluid being used is prone to forming an emulsion, it tends to take time to separate two or more fluids in the recovery container, so it is preferable to set the inner diameter D larger.

[0040] The length L of the flow path 11 can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. The length L of the flow path 11 is preferably 0.01 m or greater, more preferably 0.5 m or greater. Within this range, a greater length L further enhances the transfer of substances between the two phases of the fluid. Furthermore, the length L is preferably 50 m or less, more preferably 10 m or less. Within this range, a smaller length L further enhances the ability to accurately deliver liquid at the set flow rate without being affected by back pressure.

[0041] The length L of the flow path 11 can be adjusted as appropriate depending on the type of fluid, the material of the flow path 11 , the performance of a pump that pumps the fluid, and the like.

[0042] In the present invention, the material of the flow path 11 is not particularly limited. The material of the flow path 11 can be appropriately selected from substances known in the art as flow path materials, such as resin, glass, or metal. Examples of resins include perfluoroalkoxyalkane (PFA) resin and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) resin.

[0043] (flow)

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown in (a), in the introduction step S11, the first fluid A is introduced into the flow path 11 at a flow rate VA, and the second fluid B is introduced into the flow path 11 at a flow rate VB. In this embodiment, during the introduction step S11, the flow rates VA and VB are constant. However, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to this, and during the introduction step S11, the flow rates VA and VB may be independently constant or variable. In addition, in this embodiment, the flow rates VA and VB are equal. However, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to this, and the flow rates VA and VB may be different.

[0045] The total flow rate VA + VB of fluids A and B is preferably 0.1 mL / min or greater, more preferably 1.0 mL / min or greater. Within this range, a greater total flow rate VA + VB increases the hourly throughput. Furthermore, the total flow rate VA + VB is preferably 200 mL / min or less, more preferably 100 mL / min or less. Within this range, a smaller total flow rate VA + VB reduces the risk of emulsion formation within the streaky fluid. Furthermore, when using three or more fluids, the total flow rate of these three or more fluids is preferably within the above range.

[0046] The total flow rate VA + VB of fluids A and B can be appropriately adjusted depending on the type of fluid, the material of flow path 11, the performance of the pump that pumps the fluids, and the like. For example, when glass is used as the material of flow path 11, streaked fluid with a larger flow rate tends to be more stably formed. Therefore, in order to form a slug flow with excellent throughput, it is preferable to set the total flow rate VA + VB to a larger value.

[0047] The ratio VA / VB of the flow rate VA to the flow rate VB is preferably 0.1 or greater and 10 or less, more preferably 0.5 or greater and 2.0 or less. When the ratio VA / VB is within this range, the transfer of substances between fluids A and B is increased. Furthermore, the ratio VA / VB can be constant or variable. When variable, the ratio VA / VB preferably varies within the aforementioned range. Furthermore, when using three or more fluids, the flow rate ratio for any combination of two of the three or more fluids is preferably within the aforementioned range.

[0048] (Duration of the introduction process)

[0049] like Figure 2 As shown in (a), in this embodiment, in the introduction step S11, two fluids A and B are introduced into the flow path 11 during a duration T1. The duration T1 of the introduction step S11 is preferably 0.1 seconds or longer, more preferably 1.0 seconds or longer. Within this range, the longer the duration T1, the more effective it is to increase the apparent flow rate. In addition, the duration T1 is preferably 20 seconds or less, more preferably 5.0 seconds or less. Within this range, the shorter the duration T1, the more effective it is to reduce the phenomenon of emulsion formation in the streak-shaped fluid.

[0050] The duration T1 of the introduction step S11 can be appropriately adjusted depending on the type of fluid, the material of the flow path 11, the performance of the pump that pressurizes the fluid, etc. For example, when the fluid used contains a solute that exhibits surfactant, emulsions tend to form in the streaky fluid, so it is preferable to set the duration T1 to a shorter time.

[0051] In this embodiment, the introduction period of the first fluid A coincides with the introduction period of the second fluid B. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the introduction periods of the two or more fluids may overlap or may not coincide. This specification stipulates that the period during which at least one fluid is introduced into the flow path 11 to form a flow within the flow path 11 constitutes the introduction step S11. This specification also stipulates that the duration T1 of the introduction step S11 is the length of the period during which the at least one fluid is introduced into the flow path 11.

[0052] In the present embodiment, the switching from the introduction process S11 to the formation process S12 is implemented mainly due to the passage of duration T1. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the switching may be implemented based on the cumulative volume ratio of the two fluids A and B introduced into the flow path 11. That is, the formation process S12 may be implemented after the cumulative volume ratio of the two fluids A and B introduced into the flow path 11 in the introduction process S11 reaches a predetermined value. By adopting such a configuration, the effect of maintaining the fluids A and B constituting the stripe-shaped fluid F constant is achieved. Here, the cumulative volume ratio refers to the ratio of the cumulative volume of the first fluid A introduced into the flow path 11 in a single introduction process S11 to the cumulative volume of the second fluid B. As a predetermined value, for example, it may be within the range of not less than 0.1 and not more than 10.

[0053] [Formation process]

[0054] The formation process S12 is a process of forming a striped fluid F by making the flow rate of each of the two or more fluids in the flow path 11 substantially 0 mL / min at the same time. The striped fluid F is a fluid formed by alternating two or more phases composed of two or more fluids along the length L direction of the flow path 11.

[0055] In this specification, "making the flow rate substantially 0 mL / min" refers to performing an operating operation known in the art for stopping the fluid flowing in the flow path 11, and therefore does not mean strictly making the flow rate 0 mL / min. As an example, although all the pumps that respectively pump two or more fluids have been stopped, the fluid flows in the flow path 11 due to the pulsation of the pumps. In this case, the flow rate can be regarded as substantially 0 mL / min. As another example, although all valves located upstream or downstream of the flow path 11 have been closed, the fluid flows in the flow path 11 due to leakage of the valves. In this case, the flow rate can be regarded as substantially 0 mL / min. Without limitation, for example, making the flow rate below 0.01 mL / min falls within the scope of "making the flow rate substantially 0 mL / min".

[0056] The forming step S12 can be performed by an operation known in the art to stop the fluid flowing in the flow path 11. For example, the forming step S12 can be performed by stopping all pumps that pump two or more fluids, or by closing all valves located upstream or downstream of the flow path 11.

[0057] (Duration of the forming process)

[0058] like Figure 2As shown in (a), in the present embodiment, in the formation process S12, during the duration T2, the flow rates of the two fluids A and B are substantially simultaneously 0 mL / min. The duration T2 of the formation process S12 is preferably 0.01 seconds or longer, more preferably 1.0 seconds or longer. Within this range, the longer the duration T2 is, the more effective it is to easily form a streak-shaped fluid. In addition, the duration T2 is preferably 6.0 seconds or less, more preferably 3.0 seconds or less. Within this range, the shorter the duration T2 is, the more effective it is to increase the hourly processing capacity.

[0059] The duration T2 of step S12 can be appropriately adjusted based on the type of fluid, the material of flow path 11, the performance of the pump that pumps the fluid, and the like. For example, when a high-viscosity fluid is used, the time required for the parallel-flowing streaky fluid to undergo a morphological change tends to be long, so it is preferable to set duration T2 to a longer time. As a specific example, when any one of the two or more fluids is silicone oil, duration T2 is preferably set to 2 seconds or longer.

[0060] The duration T2 of the formation step S12 can be selected in consideration of the ratio T2 / T1 relative to the duration T1 of the introduction step S11. For example, the ratio T2 / T1 is preferably 60 or less, and more preferably 5 or less. Within this range, the smaller the ratio T2 / T1, the greater the effect of increasing the average flow rate, i.e., the apparent flow rate, throughout the formation method M1.

[0061] Furthermore, this specification stipulates that the period during which the flow rates of two or more fluids in flow path 11 are simultaneously and substantially 0 mL / min belongs to formation step S12. This specification further stipulates that duration T2 of formation step S12 is the length of the period during which the flow rates of two or more fluids in flow path 11 are simultaneously and substantially 0 mL / min.

[0062] [Flow behavior during repeated introduction and formation steps]

[0063] Below, we will refer to Figure 2 (b)~ Figure 2 (e) The state of the two fluids A and B in the flow channel 11 during the period in which the introduction step S11 and the formation step S12 are alternately and repeatedly performed will be described.

[0064] like Figure 2As shown in (b), in the initial introduction step S11, the first fluid A and the second fluid B are introduced into the flow path 11 together, thereby forming the flow of two fluids A and B. Here, the two fluids A and B merge at a confluence portion (not shown) located upstream of the flow path 11 and then flow into the flow path 11. The two fluids A and B are in a stable state with respect to the friction generated between them and the inner wall of the flow path 11, forming parallel flows and flowing in the flow path 11. The parallel flows are formed by the two fluids A and B being arranged in a manner perpendicular to the length L of the flow path 11. In addition, the larger the flow rates VA and VB, the stronger the tendency of the two fluids A and B to form parallel flows.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown in (c), in the initial formation step S12, the flow rates of the two fluids A and B are simultaneously set to substantially 0 mL / min, thereby stopping the flow of the two fluids A and B in the flow channel 11. As a result, the parallel-flow stripe-shaped fluid F formed in the initial introduction step S11 undergoes a morphology change. The stripe-shaped fluid F is a fluid in which the phase PA composed of the first fluid A and the phase PB composed of the second fluid B are alternately arranged along the length L of the flow channel 11.

[0066] like Figure 2 As shown in (d), in the next introduction step S11, the same operation as in the initial introduction step S11 is performed. As a result, the two fluids A and B that have recently flowed into the flow channel 11 from the confluence portion form parallel flows, similar to the initial introduction step S11. Meanwhile, the streak-shaped fluid F formed in the initial formation step S12 flows through the flow channel 11 while maintaining the alignment of the phases PA and PB, forming a slug flow.

[0067] like Figure 2 As shown in (e), in the next forming step S12, the same operation as the first forming step S12 is performed. As a result, the parallel flow formed in the next introducing step S11 undergoes a new change in form to the streak-shaped fluid F.

[0068] Generally, if the goal is to create a slug flow, forming a parallel flow is considered undesirable. However, as described above, in this embodiment, the parallel flow formed undergoes a morphological change to a striped fluid F during the formation step S12. Therefore, according to this embodiment, there is no need to suppress the flow rate of the fluid to avoid the formation of parallel flows, and a slug flow with a large flow rate can be formed. In addition, in this embodiment, two or more fluids are introduced into the flow path 11 simultaneously, so there is no need to limit the fluid temporarily introduced into the flow path 11 to a single type, nor is there a need to perform high-speed valve control. Therefore, according to this embodiment, a slug flow can be more easily formed.

[0069] [Methods for preparing chemical substances]

[0070] The method M1 for forming a striped fluid according to one aspect of the present invention can be used, for example, in a chemical preparation process. Specifically, the method includes treating a chemical substance or its precursor using the method M1 for forming a striped fluid according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0071] In one aspect of the present invention, a method for producing a chemical substance involves treating a chemical substance or its precursor using a slug flow formed during a formation method M1. Examples of treatment objectives include, but are not limited to, heterogeneous reactions, extraction, and separation. Furthermore, the method for producing a chemical substance may also comprise a multi-stage reaction. The target of treatment using the streak-shaped fluid formation method M1 is not limited to the final product, i.e., the target substance to be produced; it may also be a precursor generated initially or midway through a multi-stage reaction.

[0072] The chemical substance to be prepared is not particularly limited and can be selected from substances known in the art. Examples of the chemical substance include, but are not limited to, peptides.

[0073] In the case of peptide production, slug flow can be used to separate the peptide from byproducts. In this case, an organic liquid and an aqueous solution can be used as fluids, the organic liquid containing the peptide and byproducts as solutes, and the aqueous solution used to remove only the byproducts into the aqueous solution.

[0074] [Apparatus for forming a streak-shaped fluid]

[0075] An aspect of the present invention relates to a device for forming a striped fluid as described below: a device for forming a striped fluid, comprising: two or more containers for storing two or more mutually immiscible fluids; a flow path connected to the two or more containers; a pump for pressurizing the two or more fluids to the flow path; and a control unit; wherein the control unit is configured to: cause the device for forming the striped fluid to perform an introduction process, a formation process, and a process for causing the device for forming the striped fluid to alternately and repeatedly perform an introduction process and a formation process, wherein the introduction process forms a flow of the two or more fluids by introducing the two or more fluids into the flow path together; and the formation process forms a striped fluid by making the flow rates of the two or more fluids in the flow path substantially 0 mL / min at the same time, wherein the striped fluid is a fluid formed by two or more phases respectively composed of the two or more fluids and arranged alternately along the length direction of the flow path.

[0076] Below, we will refer to Figure 3 A device 100 for forming a streak-shaped fluid according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 3This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of an apparatus 100 for forming a streak-shaped fluid according to one embodiment of the present invention. Without limitation, apparatus 100 can execute the aforementioned forming method M1. For ease of description, components having the same functions as those described in forming method M1 are designated with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0077] (Parts forming the device)

[0078] like Figure 3 As shown, the forming apparatus 100 includes a flow path 11 , two containers 12A and 12B, two pumps 13A and 13B, a merging portion 14 , a recovery container 15 , and a control portion 16 .

[0079] The flow path 11 is a flow path connecting the merging portion 14 and the recovery container 15. Figure 3 As shown, the flow path 11 is connected to the containers 12A and 12B via the junction 14, the pumps 13A and 13B, respectively. The structure of the flow path 11 is as described in the formation method M1 above, and its description will not be repeated.

[0080] Two containers 12A and 12B respectively store two immiscible fluids A and B.

[0081] Pump 13A is in communication with container 12A and confluence portion 14, and is used to pressure-transfer fluid A contained in container 12A to flow path 11 connected to confluence portion 14. Similarly, pump 13B is in communication with container 12B and confluence portion 14, and is used to pressure-transfer fluid B contained in container 12B to flow path 11 connected to confluence portion 14.

[0082] The confluence portion 14 is a three-branch pipe that communicates with the pumps 13A and 13B and the recovery container 15. The confluence portion 14 and the recovery container 15 are communicated via the flow path 11. Examples of the confluence portion 14 include a T-tube, a Y-tube, a spiral mixer, and a static mixer.

[0083] The recovery container 15 is in communication with the merging portion 14 and is used to recover and store the streak-shaped fluid F flowing in the flow path 11 as a slug flow.

[0084] The control unit 16 is communicably connected to the pumps 13A and 13B. In addition, the connection object of the control unit 16 is not limited to the pumps 13A and 13B. As long as it is connected to each part of the forming device 100 so that the forming device 100 can perform the introduction process and the formation process described below, it can be obtained. For example, the control unit 16 can also be communicably connected to a valve, which is arranged at an arbitrary position in the flow path for connecting the containers 12A and 12B and the recovery container 15. As the control unit 16, a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor (MPU) or a microcontroller can be used.

[0085] In addition, in the present embodiment, the forming device 100 is described for using two fluids and having the same number of containers and pumps (i.e., two containers and two pumps). However, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to this. When using three or more fluids, three or more containers and pumps can also be respectively provided on the forming device 100. In addition, the number of pumps can also be different from the number of fluids. For example, one pump can also be provided to jointly pressure-feed two or more fluids. In addition, when using three or more fluids, as the confluence portion, a pipe with one more branch than the number of fluids can be used, or a pipe having two or more three-branch pipes connected can also be used.

[0086] (Processing by the control unit)

[0087] The control unit 16 causes the forming device 100 to perform an introduction process (introduction step S11) and a formation process (formation step S12). The introduction process is a process that performs the introduction step S11, and the formation process is a process that performs the formation step S12. Furthermore, the control unit 16 causes the forming device 100 to perform a process that causes the forming device 100 to alternately and repeatedly perform the introduction process and the formation process. Thus, the forming device 100 alternately and repeatedly performs the introduction step S11 and the formation step S12.

[0088] The various processes performed by the forming apparatus 100 are achieved by the control unit 16 sending command signals to the pumps 13A and 13B. Specifically, the control unit 16 sends command signals to the pumps 13A and 13B to adjust the amount of fluid pumped according to the flow rate and duration of the introduction step S11 and the forming step S12. Pumps 13A and 13B receive the command signals and pump fluids A and B into the flow path 11 according to the flow rate and duration included in the command signals.

[0089] As a modified example, when the control unit 16 is communicatively connected to the valve, each process performed by the forming apparatus 100 is achieved by the control unit 16 sending a command signal to the valve. Specifically, the control unit 16 sends the command signal to the valve to adjust the opening and closing degree to a flow rate and duration that allows for smooth flow through the introduction step S11 and the forming step S12. The valve receives the command signal and adjusts its opening and closing degree based on the opening and closing degree indicated in the command signal.

[0090] 〔Summarize〕

[0091] Based on the above description, it can be understood that the present invention includes the following aspects.

[0092] The first aspect: A method for forming a striped fluid, which alternately and repeatedly implements an introduction process and a formation process, wherein the introduction process forms the flow of two or more mutually immiscible fluids by introducing them into a flow path together; the formation process forms the striped fluid by making the flow rate of each of the two or more fluids in the flow path substantially 0 mL / min at the same time, wherein the striped fluid is a fluid formed by alternatingly arranging two or more phases respectively composed of the two or more fluids along the length direction of the flow path.

[0093] A second aspect: The method for forming a striped fluid according to the first aspect, wherein the forming step is performed after a cumulative volume ratio of the two or more fluids introduced into the flow path in the introducing step reaches a predetermined value.

[0094] A third aspect: A method for forming a striped fluid according to the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein the two or more fluids are a combination of a first fluid and a second fluid, the first fluid is water or an aqueous solution, and the second fluid is a hydrophobic organic liquid.

[0095] Aspect 4: A method for forming a striped fluid according to aspect 1 or aspect 2, wherein the two or more fluids are a combination of a first fluid, a second fluid and a third fluid, the first fluid is water or an aqueous solution, the second fluid is a hydrophobic organic liquid, and the third fluid is a gas.

[0096] A fifth aspect: A method for preparing a chemical substance, comprising: using the method for forming a striped fluid described in any one of the first to fourth aspects to process the chemical substance or its precursor.

[0097] Aspect 6: A device for forming a striped fluid, comprising: two or more containers for storing two or more mutually immiscible fluids; a flow path connected to the two or more containers; a pump for pressurizing the two or more fluids to the flow path; and a control unit; wherein the control unit is configured to: cause the device for forming the striped fluid to perform an introduction process, a formation process, and a process for causing the device for forming the striped fluid to alternately and repeatedly perform the introduction process and the formation process, wherein the introduction process forms a flow of the two or more fluids by introducing the two or more fluids into the flow path together; the formation process forms a striped fluid by making the flow rates of the two or more fluids in the flow path substantially 0 mL / min at the same time, wherein the striped fluid is a fluid formed by alternating arrangement of two or more phases respectively composed of the two or more fluids along the length direction of the flow path.

[0098] [Notes]

[0099] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0100] Example

[0101] In the following, an embodiment of the present invention is described. In this embodiment, the formation of streaky fluids when two or more fluids are introduced into a flow path under various conditions is verified.

[0102] [Example 1]

[0103] Use the following device to assemble the valve Figure 3 The forming device shown is the same device.

[0104] Pump: Diaphragm pump "QI-100-TT-PS" (manufactured by Tekmina);

[0105] Junction: PFA Union Tee "PFA-220-3" (outer diameter 1 / 8 inch, manufactured by Swagelok);

[0106] Flow path: PFA tube (inner diameter 1.59 mm, length 2 m, manufactured by Flon Industry Co., Ltd.)

[0107] 4-Methyltetrahydropyran (MTHP) was used as the first fluid A, and water was used as the second fluid B. Two pumps, each pumping fluids A and B, were repeatedly operated at a flow rate of 10 mL / min for one second, followed by a one-second pause. An animation of the operating flow path was captured to visually determine whether streaks of fluid formed in the flow path during the pump pauses. In the event of streaks, the length of each phase of the streaked fluid along the length of the flow path was measured. The results are shown in Table 2.

[0108] [Examples 2 to 21]

[0109] Examples 2 to 21 were performed in the same manner as Example 1, except that the operating conditions of the apparatus and pump were modified as shown in Tables 1 to 4. Furthermore, in Examples 18 to 20, MTHP containing RHEODOL TW-0120V at a concentration of 0.1 M as a solute was used as Fluid A. The results are shown in Tables 2 and 4.

[0110] [Comparative Examples 1 to 6 and Reference Examples 1 to 3]

[0111] Comparative Examples 1 to 6 and Reference Examples 1 to 3 were conducted in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the pump was operated without stopping and continuous pressure delivery was performed, and the operating conditions of the device and pump were changed as shown in Tables 3 and 4. In Comparative Example 6, MTHP containing RHEODOL TW-0120V at a solute concentration of 0.1 M was used as fluid A. The results are shown in Table 4.

[0112] Table 1

[0113]

[0114] Table 2

[0115]

[0116] Table 3

[0117]

[0118] Table 4

[0119]

[0120] 〔result〕

[0121] (Reference Examples 1 to 3)

[0122] The results of Reference Examples 1 to 3 show that when the total flow rate during the introduction step is low, streaked fluid is formed without performing the formation step. However, due to the low total flow rate, the predicted throughput is low. Furthermore, when glass is used as the flow path material, streaked fluid is formed at a higher total flow rate than with PFA.

[0123] (Comparative Examples 1 to 6)

[0124] From the results of Comparative Examples 1 to 6 and Reference Example 1, it was confirmed that the larger the total flow rate, the less likely it is that a streak-like fluid will be formed.

[0125] (Examples 1 to 21)

[0126] The results of Examples 1 to 21 and Comparative Examples 1 to 6 show that even when the total flow rate is the same as that of Comparative Examples 1 to 6, a streak-like fluid is formed by performing the formation process. In addition, in Examples 1 to 21, the time (T1 + T2) for one cycle of the introduction process and the formation process is as short as 1.1 seconds to 6 seconds, and the phase length is as short as 0.3 cm to 5.0 cm. In contrast, in the technology of Reference 1, in order to achieve the same phase length, the valve is controlled in a shorter cycle, so the device structure tends to be complex. Therefore, it can be said that according to the present invention, slug flow can be formed with a simpler device structure.

[0127] The results of Example 1 and Reference Example 2 demonstrate that, even at the same apparent flow rate, performing the formation step can produce a streak-shaped fluid with a shorter phase length. The shorter the phase length, the larger the contact area between the fluids. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is expected that the effects of treatment using slug flow will be enhanced.

[0128] The results of Examples 1 to 4 and Comparative Example 1 show that even when the total flow rate is so high that no streak-like flow is formed without the formation step, streak-like flow is formed by performing the formation step. Therefore, it can be said that the present invention can achieve a higher throughput by utilizing the slug flow process.

[0129] The results of Examples 7, 9, and 10 demonstrate that, even when the total flow rate remains the same, the apparent flow rate can be adjusted by adjusting the duration T1 of the introduction step and the duration T2 of the formation step. Therefore, it can be said that the present invention allows for appropriate adjustment of the time the fluid remains in the flow path, thereby achieving a desired level of treatment.

[0130] The results of Reference Example 1 and Comparative Example 6 show that streaked flow tends to be difficult to form when the fluid contains a solute. However, the results of Examples 18 to 20 and Comparative Example 6 show that, by performing the formation process, streaked flow can be formed even when the fluid contains a solute. Therefore, it can be said that the present invention can form slug flow with a wider variety of fluids.

[0131] Furthermore, in Example 4, which had the largest total flow rate, the streak-like fluid that was temporarily formed did not change its form to a parallel flow during the introduction process, but instead flowed as a slug flow. Therefore, it can be said that the present invention can achieve a slug flow with a higher flow rate.

[0132] Industrial applicability

[0133] The present invention can be used for the preparation of chemical substances, etc.

[0134] Description of Reference Numerals

[0135] 11 flow path

[0136] 12A, 12B containers

[0137] 13A, 13B pumps

[0138] 16 Control Unit

[0139] 100 forming device

Claims

1. A method for forming a stripe-shaped fluid, wherein the method comprises alternately and repeatedly performing an introduction step and a formation step. The introducing step is to introduce two or more mutually immiscible fluids into the flow path together, thereby forming a flow of the two or more fluids; The forming step forms a striped fluid by making the flow rate of each of the two or more fluids in the flow path substantially 0 mL / min at the same time, wherein the striped fluid is a fluid in which two or more phases respectively composed of the two or more fluids are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the flow path.

2. The method for forming a striped fluid according to claim 1, wherein: The forming step is performed after the cumulative volume ratio of the two or more fluids introduced into the flow path in the introducing step reaches a predetermined value.

3. The method for forming a striped fluid according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The two or more fluids are a combination of a first fluid and a second fluid, the first fluid is water or an aqueous solution, and the second fluid is a hydrophobic organic liquid.

4. The method for forming a striped fluid according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The two or more fluids are a combination of a first fluid, a second fluid and a third fluid, the first fluid is water or an aqueous solution, the second fluid is a hydrophobic organic liquid, and the third fluid is a gas.

5. A method for preparing a chemical substance, comprising: A chemical substance or a precursor thereof is treated using the method for forming a striped fluid according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A device for forming a streak-shaped fluid, comprising: two or more containers each storing two or more mutually immiscible fluids; a flow path communicating with the two or more containers; a pump for pressure-feeding the two or more fluids to the flow paths; and a control unit; in, The control unit is configured to: cause the stripe-shaped fluid forming device to perform an introduction process, a formation process, and a process for causing the stripe-shaped fluid forming device to alternately repeat the introduction process and the formation process; The introduction process forms a flow of the two or more fluids by introducing the two or more fluids into the flow path together; The forming process forms a striped fluid by making the flow rate of each of the two or more fluids in the flow path substantially 0 mL / min at the same time, wherein the striped fluid is a fluid in which two or more phases respectively constituted by the two or more fluids are alternately arranged along the length direction of the flow path.

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