Semicontinuous Thermal Separation Systems

Chemical Engineering & Technology, Special Issue: Reactor Design & Process Intensification, Volume 35, Issue 7, pages 1153–1170, July, 2012

Semicontinuous Thermal Separation Systems

T. A. Adams II*, A. Pascall

tadams@mcmaster.ca

McMaster University, Department of Chemical Engineering, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Semicontinuous separation processes have been studied as a unique process intensification technique for the thermal separation of chemical mixtures.  A single separation unit is typically used for multiple purposes with the aid of an auxiliary storage tank called a middle vessel. The system is operated cyclically but without startup or shutdown phases.

Consequently, multiple separation steps can be carried out with fewer capital expenses. In several cases, a significant profitability advantage over continuous or batch process alternatives has been demonstrated.  This is especially true for intermediate production capacities.  

Authors review the progress in semicontinuous systems, including the development of semicontinuous ternary distillation, liquid-liquid extraction, azeotrope distillation, reactive distillation, and semicontinuous systems with integrated reaction and distillation or extraction.

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