Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, Vol.56, No.14, 3822-3832, 2017
Segregated-Feed Membrane Reactor Design for Alkylpyridine N-Oxidation: Implications for Process Safety and Intensification
This manuscript provides theoretical analysis indicating the validity and promise of a continuous tube-in-tube membrane reactor for performing the industrially important yet potentially hazardous liquid phase, homogeneous catalytic N-oxidation of alkylpyridines in a more scalable and inherently safer fashion. The design facilitates controlled radial slip of hydrogen peroxide into cocurrent alkylpyridine flow driven by an applied trans-membrane pressure difference across the inner porous ceramic tube. Design rules in terms of relative permeation and reaction rates are established in terms of desired outlet alkylpyridine conversion and peroxide residue using a single isothermal tube-in-tube unit. Multiunit module design is then investigated to optimize productivity and module dimensions while balancing heat transfer capability to maintain isothermal operation in practice and preventing mass transfer across the unit boundary to ensure isolation.