Reactive distillation is used with reversible,
liquid phase reactions. Suppose a reversible reaction had the following
chemical equation :
For many revesible reactions the equilibrium point lies far
to the left and little product is formed :
However, if one or more of the products are removed more of
the product will be formed because of Le Chatlier's Principle :
Removing one or more of the products is one of the principles
behind reactive distillation. The reaction mixture is heated and the product(s)
are boiled off. However, caution must be taken that the reactants won't boil off
before the products.
For example, Reactive Distillation can be used in removing
acetic acid from water. Acetic acid is the byproduct of several reactions and is
very usefull in its own right. Derivatives of acetic acid are used in foods,
pharmaceuticals, explosives, medicinals and solvents. It is also found in many
homes in the form of vinegar. However, it is considered a polutant in waste
water from a reaction and must be removed.
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