Process for Converting Equilibrium-Limited Reactions

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

The invention describes a method and apparatus for improving the yield of chemical reactions that are limited by equilibrium, such as methanol or ammonia synthesis. The process involves using a catalyst and a special sorbent within a reactor; the sorbent selectively absorbs reaction products, removing them from the immediate reaction zone and thus shifting the equilibrium, enabling more product to be formed. The catalyst and sorbent are kept separated within the reactor, simplifying operation and reducing the need for complex separation steps.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Industrial production of methanol or ammonia where reaction yield is typically limited by chemical equilibrium
• Production of other chemicals involving equilibrium-limited reactions (e.g., esters, hydrogenation products)
• Upgrading or retrofitting existing chemical plants to increase efficiency and yield with lower energy costs
• Continuous or batch processes in chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Applications where low-energy or more sustainable chemical processes are desired

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Higher product yield from reactions that are previously equilibrium-limited
• Lower energy consumption and reduced technical complexity compared to conventional recycle processes
• Simplified separation of products and reduced need for gas-phase recirculation equipment
• Improved process stability and easier startup/shutdown procedures
• Potential for more compact, efficient reactor designs and lower operational costs
• Better control over product purity and selectivity due to selective sorption techniques

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for converting equilibrium-limited reactions, the method comprising the following steps: arranging a catalyst material in a reactor; introducing educts into the reactor; reacting the educts to products until an equilibrium state has been reached; introducing of a sorbent into the reactor; sorption of the products by means of the sorbent. The method is characterized in that the product-loaded sorbent is collected in a collection zone in the reactor, and that the catalyst material is arranged in the reactor such that the catalyst material is separated from the collection zone.