A Sequential and hierarchical approach for the feasibility analysis and the preliminary synthesis and design of reactive distillation processes

Abstract A procedure that combines feasibility analysis, synthesis and design of reactive distillation columns is introduced. The main interest of this methodology lies on a progressive introduction of the process complexity. From minimal information concerning the physicochemical properties of the system, three steps lead to the design of the unit and the specification of its operating conditions. This methodology which provides a reliable initialization point for the optimization of the process has been applied with success to different synthesis. The production of Methyl-Tert-Butyl-Ether (MTBE) is presented here as an example.