Zeolite Fixed-Bed Reactor for Beta-Mercaptoethanol Synthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing beta-mercaptoethanol (BME) in continuous stirred-tank reactors are limited by low conversion efficiency and the formation of undesirable side products like thiodiglycol, necessitating the development of more effective processes for high-purity BME production.
Innovation Solution
A process involving a fixed bed reactor with a solid catalyst comprising a zeolite, hydrogen sulfide, and an oxirane compound to produce a sulfur-containing reaction product, such as BME, with a zeolite catalyst facilitating the conversion of oxirane to BME while minimizing side product formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a continuous stirred-tank reactor (CSTR) is used to produce beta-mercaptoethanol from ethylene oxide and hydrogen sulfide, then the reaction can proceed continuously, but the conversion of ethylene oxide is limited and undesirable side products such as thiodiglycol are produced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical mixing system of a CSTR with a fixed-bed catalytic reactor system. This substitution eliminates the need for continuous stirring while enabling higher conversion efficiency and selectivity through catalytic action on the reaction substrates, thereby resolving the contradiction between productivity and manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the reaction parameters by introducing a catalyst and adjusting temperature and pressure conditions. These parameter changes enable the reaction to proceed with higher conversion efficiency and reduced side product formation, simultaneously improving both productivity and product purity
2Ease of operation
If a continuous stirred-tank reactor (CSTR) is used to produce beta-mercaptoethanol, then the process is simple to operate, but undesirable side products like thiodiglycol are formed reducing product quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical mixing system of a CSTR with a fixed-bed catalytic reactor system. This substitution eliminates the need for continuous stirring while enabling higher conversion efficiency and selectivity through catalytic action on the reaction substrates, thereby resolving the contradiction between productivity and manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a catalyst as an intermediary substance that facilitates the main reaction while suppressing side reactions. This intermediary enables the system to achieve higher product purity without significantly complicating the operational process, as the catalyst is introduced in a straightforward manner into the reaction system
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 high selectivity and purity of BME, exceeding 99% conversion with reduced formation of undesirable products like thiodiglycol, thereby improving operational efficiency and product quality.
Implementation Method 1
reacting, in a reactor having a fixed bed containing a solid catalyst comprising a zeolite, hydrogen sulfide, and an oxirane compound in the presence of the solid catalyst to yield a reaction product comprising a mercapto-alcohol
Data Source
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AI summary
A process comprising reacting, in a reactor having a fixed bed containing a solid catalyst which contains a zeolite, hydrogen sulfide and an oxirane in the presence of the solid catalyst to yield a reaction product with contains a mercapto-alcohol. A reactor system includes the reactor, an oxirane feed stream, a hydrogen sulfide feed stream, a fixed bed containing the solid catalyst placed inside the reactor, and an effluent stream containing the reaction product. The hydrogen sulfide and the oxirane are present in a mole ratio in a range of about 5:1 to 50:1.