Abstract
The use of automated continuous flow reactors is described, with real-time online Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis to enable rapid optimization of reaction yield using a self-optimizing feedback algorithm. This technique has been applied to the solvent-free methylation of 1-pentanol with dimethyl carbonate using a c-alumina catalyst. Calibration of the FT-IR signal was performed using gas chromatography to enable quantification of yield over a wide variety of flow rates and temperatures. The use of FT-IR as a real-time analytical technique resulted in an order of magnitude reduction in the time and materials required compared to previous studies. This permitted a wide exploration of the parameter space to provide process understanding and validation of the optimization algorithms.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1127-1131 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Applied Spectroscopy |
Volume | 67 |
Issue number | 10 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Oct 2013 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Etherification
- FT-IR spectroscopy
- Flow chemistry
- Process optimization
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Instrumentation
- Spectroscopy