Study of the reaction paths for cleaner production of nitrochlorobenzenes using microwave irradiation

2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene (2,4-DNCB) is produced using microwave (MW) assisted nitration of monochlorobenzene (MCB). This offers the advantage of energy transformation and volumetric heating throughout in a shorter reaction time and controls the excess solvent usage. The present study investigates the conversion and selectivity for the production of nitro-chlorobenzene compounds by series nitration of chlorobenzene under microwave irradiation. Operating parameters such as reaction time, feed composition, microwave energy and reaction temperature were systematically investigated for the nitration of MCB. Advantages like reduction in reaction time, minimization of waste acid production, enhanced yield and selectivity for the desired products were important observations. The nitration kinetics of MCB and intermediate compounds like para-nitrochlorobenzene (PNCB) and ortho-nitrochlorobenzene (ONCB) have been further investigated. The kinetic batch reactor modeling was anticipated for the nitration as a forward reaction.