Ionic Liquid Hydrocarbon Isomerization Phase Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chemical conversion processes involving ionic liquids and hydrocarbons face challenges in achieving efficient isomerization and separating the ionic liquid from the hydrocarbons due to their immiscibility, leading to complex apparatus requirements and inefficient phase separation.
Innovation Solution
A chemical conversion process is developed where the volume ratio of ionic liquid to hydrocarbon is optimized from 2.5 to 4:1, allowing for a higher space-time yield and reduced apparatus complexity by inverting the dispersion direction after the reaction, facilitating faster phase separation and improved removal of ionic liquids using coalescing filters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If ionic liquid and hydrocarbon are used in conventional ratios (1:1 to 1.5:1), then the apparatus complexity is reduced, but the space-time yield is lower
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the volume ratio parameter from conventional 1:1 to 2.5:1 or higher, which fundamentally alters the dispersion characteristics and enables both high productivity and simplified apparatus design simultaneously
2Productivity
If ionic liquid and hydrocarbon are mixed with vigorous stirring to establish intensive contact, then the catalytic action is utilized effectively, but the phase separation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by using high volume ratio of ionic liquid to create spontaneous phase separation that is rapid and simple, eliminating the need for complex separation apparatus while maintaining effective catalytic contact during reaction
3Productivity
If the volume ratio of ionic liquid to hydrocarbon is increased to 2.5:1 or higher, then the space-time yield increases and apparatus complexity reduces, but the phase separation efficiency may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the volume ratio parameter to a specific range (2.5:1 to 4:1) that simultaneously achieves high space-time yield and rapid phase separation, demonstrating that parameter optimization can resolve apparent contradictions
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
This process achieves a higher space-time yield and simplifies reactor design, enabling more efficient isomerization and rapid phase separation, with improved removal of ionic liquids, thus enhancing the overall efficiency and ease of the chemical conversion process.
Implementation Method 1
Ionic liquids, especially acidic ionic liquids, are suitable, inter alia, as catalysts for the isomerization of hydrocarbons
Implementation Method 2
WO 2010/062922 discloses a multistage process for separating an ionic liquid from hydrocarbons using a coalescing filter
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a chemical conversion process, preferably an isomerization process, for at least one hydrocarbon in the presence of an ionic liquid. The chemical conversion is performed in a dispersion, with dispersion of the hydrocarbon (phase (B)) in the ionic liquid (phase (A)) in the dispersion, the volume ratio of phase (A) to phase (B) being in the range from 2.5 to 4:1 [vol/vol].