A novel process for the ethyl lactate synthesis in a simulated moving bed reactor (SMBR)

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2009

Authors

Carla S.M. Pereira (Author) FEUP; Michal Zabka (Author) FEUP; Viviana M.T.M. Silva (Author) FEUP; Alírio E. Rodrigues (Author) FEUP

Journal

Title: Chemical Engineering Science

Pages: 3301-3310

ISSN: 0009-2509

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 23 Citations

ISI Web of Science

Scopus - 25 Citations

INSPEC

COMPENDEX

Scientific classification

FOS: Engineering and technology > Chemical engineering

CORDIS: Technological sciences > Engineering > Chemical engineering

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-003-HG4

DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2009.04.003

Abstract (EN): A novel approach for the synthesis of ethyl lactate using a simulated moving bed reactor was evaluated by experiments as well as by simulations. A mathematical model considering external and internal mass-transfer resistances and variable velocity due to change of liquid composition was developed to describe the dynamic behaviour of the SMBR and it was validated by the experiments performed; it was observed that the experimental results were well predicted by the model. The effect of operating parameters, as the feed composition, SMBR configuration and switching time on the SMBR performance parameters at the optimal operating points and/or reactive/separation regions was studied. It was shown that the SMBR is a very attractive technology for the production of ethyl lactate, since under appropriate conditions the lactic acid conversion can be driven to completion and productivity as high as and purity of 95% can be obtained.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific