Polybutene Separation via Distillation with Viscosity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for separating polybutene from reaction solutions struggle with achieving high purity and efficient separation, particularly in reducing the residual content of specific solvents in the polymer.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the introduction of a polybutene solution containing halogenated and non-polar hydrocarbon solvents into a distillation column, where the solvents are separated from the polybutene, allowing for high purity separation and reduced energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a distillation column is used to separate polybutene from reaction solution, then separation purity is improved, but handling difficulty increases due to high viscosity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the system by introducing a viscosity-reducing agent that lowers the viscosity of the polybutene solution from potentially very high values to within the range of 10-150 cp. This parameter change enables the high-viscosity material to be effectively handled in the distillation column while maintaining high separation purity through the distillation process
2Ease of manufacture
If flash drum or devolatilizer is used to remove low-boiling point material, then equipment cost and handling ease are improved, but separation purity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separation approaches: first using a flash drum or devolatilizer for preliminary removal of low-boiling point solvents (achieving cost-effectiveness), then following with a distillation column for high-purity separation of polybutene. This combination achieves both low equipment cost and high separation purity
3Manufacturing precision
If distillation column is used to achieve high purity separation, then separation efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first removing the bulk of low-boiling point solvents using a flash drum or devolatilizer before subjecting the material to distillation. This preliminary removal reduces the energy burden on the distillation column, achieving high purity separation with reduced overall energy consumption
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 separates polybutene to high purity with reduced residual solvent content and lower energy consumption, addressing the inefficiencies of previous separation techniques.
Implementation Method 1
a distillation column may separate a mixture to high purity using the difference in boiling point
Implementation Method 2
having a viscosity of 1 cp to 50 cp measured at 25° C. using a rotational viscometer
Data Source
AI summary
A method for separating polybutene, the method including: (1) introducing a polybutene solution into a distillation column, the solution including polybutene, a halogenated hydrocarbon solvent, and a non-polar hydrocarbon solvent and having a viscosity of 1 cp to 50 cp measured at 25° C. using a rotational viscometer; (2) collecting an upper stream including the halogenated hydrocarbon solvent and a portion of the non-polar hydrocarbon solvent from an upper portion of the distillation column, and collecting a lower stream including the polybutene and a remaining portion of the non-polar hydrocarbon solvent from a lower portion of the distillation column, where the lower stream has a viscosity of 10 cp to 150 cp; and (3) separating the remaining portion of the non-polar hydrocarbon solvent and the polybutene from the lower stream.