What happens to the unreacted ethene?

Samuel Baker | 2023-06-07 23:09:59 | page views:1785
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Noah Johnson

Works at IBM, Lives in Armonk.
As a chemical engineering expert with a focus on petrochemical processes, I'm well-versed in the handling and conversion of ethene, commonly known as ethylene in the United States. Ethene is a key building block in the chemical industry, used in the production of a wide range of products including polymers, solvents, and other chemicals.

In the context of ethene being reacted with steam in the presence of a phosphoric acid catalyst, we are likely discussing a process known as steam cracking. Steam cracking is a primary method for producing smaller olefins such as ethene from larger hydrocarbon molecules. This process is typically carried out at very high temperatures, often exceeding 800°C, and under high pressure to facilitate the breaking of the larger hydrocarbon molecules into smaller ones.

During steam cracking, the ethene produced is not always fully reacted. The unreacted ethene, along with the steam used in the process, is a valuable resource and is typically managed in one of two ways:


1. Recycling: The unreacted ethene and steam are often recycled back into the process. This recycling helps to maintain a consistent reaction environment and ensures that the ethene is utilized efficiently. It also minimizes waste and reduces the need for additional feedstock, which can be both economically and environmentally beneficial.


2. Separation and Purification: In some cases, the unreacted ethene may be separated from the reaction mixture and purified for use in other processes or as a product itself. This can involve various separation techniques such as distillation, absorption, or membrane separation, depending on the specific requirements and the composition of the reaction mixture.

The recycling of unreacted ethene and steam is crucial for the efficiency of the steam cracking process. It allows for a continuous operation where the input materials are maximized for output, reducing the need for additional ethene and minimizing the environmental impact of the process.

In summary, the management of unreacted ethene in steam cracking processes is an integral part of maintaining the process's sustainability and efficiency. By recycling the unreacted ethene and steam, the chemical industry can optimize its use of resources and minimize waste, aligning with both economic and environmental goals.


2024-05-19 10:35:53

Isabella Lewis

Studied at the University of Sydney, Lives in Sydney, Australia.
Ethene is reacted with steam at high temperatures and in the presence of a phosphoric acid catalyst. Any unreacted ethene and steam are recycled back into the process so that they are not wasted.
2023-06-07 23:09:59

Julian Martinez

QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
Ethene is reacted with steam at high temperatures and in the presence of a phosphoric acid catalyst. Any unreacted ethene and steam are recycled back into the process so that they are not wasted.
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