Steady-state multiplicities in reactive distillation columns for the production of fuel ethers MTBE and TAME: theoretical analysis and experimental verification

In this contribution, the nonlinear dynamic behaviour of reactive distillat ion columns for the production of MTBE and TAME is studied. The focus is on steady-state multiplicity and a rigorous bifurcation analysis of pilot pla nt reactive distillation columns for both processes is presented. The diffe rent sources and physical causes for the existence of multiple steady-stale s in MTBE and TAME synthesis are discussed. Further, a rigorous experimenta l verification of steady-state multiplicity in a pilot plant reactive disti llation column for the production of TAME is presented. Finally, some remar ks on the implications of multiple steady-states on column operation are ma de. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.