Continuous Ionic Liquid Synthesis via Temperature-Controlled Reactor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing ionic liquids on a technical scale struggle to efficiently control temperature during reaction processes, limiting the ability to produce multiple ionic liquids simultaneously in a uniform process, as they require separate systems or constant system conversion, which is economically unfeasible.
Innovation Solution
A continuous process utilizing an intermediate stage, such as imidazolium-based carboxylates, where starting materials are reacted in a continuously operated reactor with temperature control, followed by separation and reaction with acids to produce various ionic liquids, allowing for simultaneous production within the same process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate systems or constant system conversion are used to produce different ionic liquids, then product variety is improved, but device complexity and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal continuous production system that can produce multiple different ionic liquids using the same reactor and process infrastructure. By using a common intermediate (imidazolium-based carboxylate) that can be converted to various final products through simple parameter adjustments, the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate production lines for each ionic liquid type
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes to switch between different ionic liquid products. By modifying reaction conditions such as temperature, pressure, or acid treatment parameters on the same continuous production line, the system can produce different ionic liquids from the same intermediate, avoiding the need for complex system reconfiguration
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate systems or constant system conversion are used to produce different ionic liquids, then product variety is improved, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous production system serves multiple product lines simultaneously, eliminating the need for costly system conversions and reducing operational expenses. The same production infrastructure produces various ionic liquids by simply adjusting process parameters, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining product variety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes continuous production processes where the intermediate stage can be continuously converted to different final products without interrupting the production flow. This continuity eliminates downtime and conversion costs associated with batch production and system reconfiguration, thereby reducing operational costs
3Use of energy by moving object
If temperature control is not efficiently managed, then energy consumption is reduced, but reaction process reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous production system incorporates temperature control mechanisms that monitor and adjust reaction conditions in real-time. This feedback control ensures that the exothermic reactions proceed reliably while managing energy consumption through efficient heat exchange and temperature regulation throughout the continuous process
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
Enables the synthesis of different ionic liquids in high yields and qualities, overcoming the limitations of existing methods by maintaining temperature control and enabling the production of multiple ionic liquids in a single, uniform technical process, reducing operational costs and increasing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A continuous process utilizing an intermediate stage, such as imidazolium-based carboxylates, where starting materials are reacted in a continuously operated reactor with temperature control
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Producing different ionic liquids industrially currently requires either operating separate plants or continually refitting existing plants. While this is not laborious, it is often not economical either. The problem the present invention addresses is that of describing a method and an industrial process by which different ionic liquids can be produced almost synchronously in a unitary production sequence. This is done either by using a chemical intermediate both relatively simple to prepare and readily convertible into multiple products, or by preparing the desired products in the same industrial process by direct synthesis from the appropriate starting materials. The method described here allows the synthesis of different ionic liquids in excellent yields and grades in a unitary production operation.