Bio-based Aromatic Solvents from Ethanol via Oligomerization and Distillation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods do not provide a viable solution for preparing bio-based aromatic or naphthenic hydrocarbon solvents from ethanol-type hydrocarbon feedstocks, which are suitable for various industrial applications.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the conversion of ethanol into ethylene, followed by oligomerization and distillation of the hydrocarbon feedstock, to produce hydrocarbon cuts with specific boiling point ranges and compositions, thereby creating a bio-based aromatic or naphthenic hydrocarbon solvent.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional refining methods are used to produce hydrocarbon solvents, then the solvents can be obtained from fossil hydrocarbons, but the bio-based content is low or non-existent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the chemical composition parameters of the feedstock by converting ethanol into hydrocarbon feedstock through specific chemical processes (olefin synthesis, oligomerization), then adjusts the molecular structure parameters through distillation to achieve the desired solvent properties with high biocarbon content
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion process where ethanol is first transformed into olefinic compounds, then oligomerized to form hydrocarbon feedstock, serving as a bridge between biomass and the desired hydrocarbon solvent
2Manufacturing precision
If hydrocarbon feedstock from ethanol is processed without distillation, then the production process is simpler, but the boiling point range and composition control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies distillation to segment the hydrocarbon feedstock into specific boiling point ranges (cuts), separating components based on their volatility to achieve precise control over the final solvent's temperature range and composition
Solution Approach 2:
The distillation process changes the physical parameters of the feedstock by separating components based on boiling point differences, transforming the broad boiling range feedstock into fractions with controlled boiling points suitable for specific solvent applications
3Manufacturing precision
If the hydrocarbon feedstock has a broad boiling range, then the feedstock is easier to process, but the final solvent cannot achieve narrow boiling point control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses distillation to divide the broad boiling range feedstock into multiple narrow boiling point ranges (cuts), with each cut suitable for specific applications, achieving precise boiling point control while maintaining processing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary olefin synthesis and oligomerization conversions before distillation, preparing the feedstock in advance to ensure optimal composition and boiling point distribution for efficient subsequent distillation and final solvent production
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 method effectively produces hydrocarbon solvents with high biocarbon content and suitable properties for industrial applications, such as solvents, thermal fluids, and fuel additives, while promoting the use of bio-based materials.
Implementation Method 1
a preparation step for preparing the hydrocarbon feedstock, said preparation step preferably comprising a conversion step for converting ethanol into ethylene and an oligomerization step for oligomerizing ethylene
Implementation Method 2
b) optionally, a step of hydrogenation of the hydrocarbon feedstock originating from ethanol provided during step a) in order to obtain a hydrogenated hydrocarbon feedstock
Implementation Method 3
c) a distillation step (i) of the hydrocarbon feedstock originating from ethanol during step a) or (ii) of the hydrogenated hydrocarbon feedstock of step b), in order to obtain at least one hydrocarbon cut
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a preparation method for hydrocarbon cuts, said method comprising:a) providing a hydrocarbon feedstock originating from ethanol having an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 20 to 250° C. and comprising:from 20 to 60% by weight of aromatic compounds;from 20 to 60% by weight of non-cyclic paraffins; andfrom 2 to 20% by weight of naphthenes,with respect to the total weight of the hydrocarbon feedstock,b) optionally, a step of hydrogenation of the hydrocarbon feedstock originating from ethanol provided during step a) in order to obtain a hydrogenated hydrocarbon feedstock;c) a distillation step (i) of the hydrocarbon feedstock originating from ethanol during step a) or (ii) of the hydrogenated hydrocarbon feedstock according to step b), in order to obtain at least one hydrocarbon cut having a difference of less than 100° C. between the final boiling point thereof and the initial boiling point thereof.