Superabsorber Production via Controlled Pneumatic Conveying Temperature
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Solution Overview
Problem
The production of superabsorbents faces disruptions in classification due to inadequate control over processing conditions, particularly the gas temperature during pneumatic conveying, which affects the quality and consistency of the final product.
Innovation Solution
A process that involves polymerizing a monomer solution containing ethylenically unsaturated acid group-bearing monomers, crosslinkers, and initiators, followed by specific steps of drying, comminution, pneumatic conveying with controlled gas temperature (50-95°C), and classification, to optimize the properties and reduce disruptions in classification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the gas temperature during pneumatic conveying is not controlled, then the classification process experiences disturbances and production disruptions, but implementing temperature control requires additional process parameters and equipment adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the gas temperature during pneumatic conveying within a specific range (50-95°C). This temperature parameter control prevents disturbances in the classification process while maintaining reliable operation. The solution involves adjusting and maintaining the gas temperature as a key process parameter to ensure classification stability without requiring complex additional equipment.
2Manufacturing precision
If the gas temperature is too high during pneumatic conveying, then classification disturbances occur, but reducing temperature below the optimal range may affect drying efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the gas temperature parameter within the range of 50-95°C to achieve a balance between classification quality and drying efficiency. This parameter optimization ensures that the temperature is high enough to maintain drying effectiveness while low enough to prevent classification disturbances, thereby resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic temperature control during the pneumatic conveying process, adjusting the gas temperature based on the specific stage of processing. The temperature is maintained within the optimal range to adapt to varying process conditions, ensuring both high classification quality and sustained drying efficiency throughout the production cycle.
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 ensures trouble-free classification and improves the properties of superabsorbents by maintaining a controlled gas temperature during pneumatic conveying, enhancing the centrifuge retention capacity and absorption under pressure, while minimizing the production of fines and large particles.
Implementation Method 1
drying of the polymer gel obtained in step i) or step ii) in a circulating air belt dryer with multiple heating zones and at least one cooling zone
Implementation Method 2
circulating air belt dryer with multiple heating zones and at least one cooling zone
Implementation Method 3
pneumatic conveying of the polymer particles obtained in step iv) or step v), wherein the gas temperature at the end of the pneumatic conveying in step vi) is from 50 to 95°C
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for producing superabsorbers, comprising the steps of: polymerising, drying, crushing, pneumatic conveying, comminuting and classifying, where the gas temperature at the end of the pneumatic conveying step is between 50 and 95°C.