Isophorone reactor: Modelling and performance enhancement

The production of isophorone in a reactive distillation column was modelled. Mass transfer and heat transfer accompanied by chemical reactions were incorporated in a dynamic non-equilibrium multistage model. A base case simulation was identified and established. The base case simulation showed the value of key performance indicator that is mass ratio of acetone consumed to isophorone produced as 1.54. The computational model was then used to understand and to evaluate influence of various key design and operating parameters on this key performance indicator. Influence of reactor volume, mass transfer coefficient and feed composition, location and temperature was evaluated. The simulated results indicate that the key performance indicator can be improved (reduce acetone consumed per isophorone produced) by manipulating acetone content in the feed and location of the feed. The presented results will be useful for realising performance enhancement of isophorone and other similar reactors.

► Production of isophorone incorporating multiple reactions was modelled.
► A dynamic non-equilibrium model of reactive distillation was developed.
► The model was used to understand influence of various parameters on a key mass ratio.
► Simulated results will be useful for improving performance of isophorone reactor.