Composite Ionic Liquid Absorbent for Ethylene Oxide Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for absorbing ethylene oxide from gas mixtures are inefficient, leading to high energy consumption and complex processes, with existing absorbents like water, methanol, and ethylene carbonate experiencing volatilization losses and requiring strict temperature control.
Innovation Solution
A composite absorbent comprising an ionic liquid and ethylene carbonate, where the ionic liquid acts as a catalyst to convert absorbed ethylene oxide and carbon dioxide into ethylene carbonate, improving absorption efficiency and reducing energy consumption through simultaneous pre-conversion and absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If water is used as absorbent for ethylene oxide separation, then absorption effect is achieved, but energy consumption during steam stripping is high and process flow is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the absorbent by using ionic liquids with specific properties (low vapor pressure, high absorbency) instead of conventional water. This parameter change enables simultaneous absorption and conversion of ethylene oxide, reducing energy consumption while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite absorbent system consisting of ionic liquid and ethylene carbonate. This composite material combines the high absorbency of ionic liquids with the catalytic properties of ethylene carbonate, achieving both efficient absorption and in-situ conversion, thereby reducing overall energy consumption and simplifying the process
2Loss of energy
If methanol is used as absorbent for ethylene oxide separation, then absorption effect and low energy consumption are achieved, but methanol reacts with ethylene oxide requiring strict temperature control and methanol is lost during desorption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces ionic liquid as an intermediary absorbent that does not react with ethylene oxide, eliminating the need for strict temperature control to prevent side reactions. The ionic liquid serves as a stable medium that absorbs ethylene oxide without the reactivity issues of methanol, while ethylene carbonate acts as a catalyst for conversion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical stability parameter of the absorbent system by selecting ionic liquids with appropriate functional groups that provide high absorbency without reactive side reactions. This parameter change allows operation without strict temperature control while maintaining low energy consumption
3Reliability
If ethylene carbonate is used as absorbent for ethylene oxide separation, then good absorption effect is achieved without side reactions, but ethylene carbonate volatilizes during desorption causing solvent loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite absorbent system where ionic liquid and ethylene carbonate work together. The ionic liquid component provides low vapor pressure and high thermal stability, preventing solvent loss during desorption, while ethylene carbonate maintains good absorption effect and catalytic activity. This composite approach combines the advantages of both materials while mitigating their individual disadvantages
4Manufacturing precision
If conventional absorption methods are used for ethylene oxide purification, then separation is achieved, but process flow is complex and equipment cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple process steps into a single integrated operation. The absorption of ethylene oxide, conversion to ethylene carbonate, and purification are combined in one process flow using the composite absorbent system. This consolidation simplifies the process flow, reduces equipment requirements, and lowers operational complexity while maintaining high purity
Solution Approach 2:
The composite absorbent system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it absorbs ethylene oxide, catalyzes conversion to ethylene carbonate, and facilitates purification. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate equipment for each operation, thereby simplifying the overall process flow and reducing device complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composite absorbent achieves high absorption rates and selectivity for ethylene oxide, simplifies process flows, reduces energy consumption, and minimizes solvent loss, making it suitable for industrial applications by enabling one-step production of ethylene carbonate.
Implementation Method 1
the composite absorbent of an ionic liquid and ethylene carbonate is used for absorbing ethylene oxide and carbon dioxide
Implementation Method 2
the ionic liquid may also be used as a catalyst to make the absorbed ethylene oxide and carbon dioxide react into ethylene carbonate
Implementation Method 3
the ionic liquid may also be used as a catalyst to make the absorbed ethylene oxide and carbon dioxide react into ethylene carbonate, which improves an absorption effect of ethylene oxide, reduces desorption and refinement of ethylene oxide
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a composite absorbent and a method for using same in the absorption and conversion of ethylene oxide for the coupling co-production of ethylene carbonate. The composite absorbent comprises an ionic liquid and ethylene carbonate, wherein the ionic liquid is an imidazole ionic liquid, a quaternary ammonium ionic liquid and a quaternary phosphonium ionic liquid. The composite absorbent is used for absorbing ethylene oxide and carbon dioxide, and is also used in the absorption and conversion of ethylene oxide for the coupling co-production of ethylene carbonate.