Waste minimization by process modification

A simulation of the Sohio process for the production of acrylonitrile from the catalytic ammoxidation of propylene has been performed, using published kinetic and thermodynamic data to illustrate the concepts of pollution prevention by process modification. The study has determined the reaction parameters which will minimize the production of by-products while maintaining the conversion of propylene above 80%. The reaction parameters studied were reactor type (plug flow reactor [PFR], continuous stirred tank reactor [CSTR], and fluidized bed reactor [FBR], reaction temperature, residence time, and entering feed temperature. The minimum byproducts were produced in an FBR operating at 450°C at a residence time of 7 seconds for a conversion of 81%.