Modified Sulfuric Acid Delignification at Low Temperatures
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Solution Overview
Problem
The kraft pulping process for delignification is energy-intensive, requires high temperatures and pressures, and generates substantial emissions, making it environmentally detrimental and costly.
Innovation Solution
A modified aqueous acid composition comprising sulfuric acid, a compound with an amine moiety and a sulfonic acid moiety (such as taurine), and a peroxide, which allows for delignification of wood at significantly lower temperatures and pressures, reducing energy and capital costs while minimizing emissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional kraft pulping process is used for delignification, then lignin removal is achieved, but energy consumption and operational costs increase significantly due to high temperature and pressure requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the chemical parameters of the pulping process by introducing a modified acid composition (sulfuric acid, amine-containing compound, and peroxide) that enables delignification at lower temperatures and pressures compared to conventional kraft process, thus reducing energy consumption while maintaining lignin removal efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a composite chemical system combining sulfuric acid, an amine-containing compound (such as taurine), and a peroxide to create a synergistic delignification agent that achieves effective lignin removal under milder conditions, reducing the energy input required
2Reliability
If high temperature and pressure are applied in kraft pulping process, then delignification is achieved, but capital expenditures for equipment and operational safety costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention modifies the process parameters by using a chemical composition that achieves delignification at lower temperatures and pressures, thereby reducing the capital expenditure for specialized high-pressure equipment and improving operational safety
3Reliability
If conventional chemical pulping process is used, then lignin degradation is achieved, but harmful emissions are generated and environmental impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the chemical composition parameters by using a controlled acid-peroxide system that degrades lignin more selectively with fewer harmful byproducts, reducing emissions and improving environmental sustainability
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 composition effectively delignifies wood at temperatures as low as 20°C, reducing energy consumption, capital expenditures, and environmental emissions, while preserving cellulose fibers and improving process safety.
Implementation Method 1
a peroxide; wherein sulfuric acid, said compound comprising an amine moiety and a sulfonic acid moiety, and said peroxide are present in a molar ratio of no less than 1:1:1
Data Source
AI summary
A modified aqueous acid composition comprising: sulfuric acid; a compound comprising an amine moiety and a sulfonic acid moiety; and a peroxide; wherein sulfuric acid, said compound comprising an amine moiety and a sulfonic acid moiety and said peroxide are present in a molar ratio of no less than 1:1:1. Also disclosed are methods of using such compositions.