Question

A.Identify the main reactant and product process streams for the ethylbenzene process (Figure B.2.1, Appendix B)

B. Identify the main recycle and bypass streams for the maleic anhydride production process (Figure B.5.1 Appendix B)
C.Write a process description for the the ethylene oxide production facility (Figure B.6.1, Appendix B)

Answer 1

In the ethylbenzene process, ethylene and benzene are the main reactants producing ethylbenzene. Maleic anhydride's production involves recycling unreacted feedstocks and byproduct streams. Ethylene oxide production typically uses the Wacker process to oxidize ethylene, which is synthesized through cracking of longer hydrocarbons.

Step-by-step explanation:

Process Streams in Chemical Production

For the ethylbenzene process, the main reactant can be identified as ethylene and benzene which react together to form ethylbenzene as the main product. This is a key precursor in the production of styrene, which is further polymerized to create polystyrene, a widely used plastic.

In the production process of maleic anhydride, the main recycle streams are likely to include unreacted feedstocks and byproducts that are reintroduced into the reaction system. Bypass streams could include portions of the feedstock or intermediate streams that are diverted around certain process units for more efficient processing or to adjust the reaction kinetics inside the reaction chambers.

The ethylene oxide production facility typically involves the oxidation of ethylene, which is a major commercial chemical used extensively to produce polyethylene as well as other products like ethylene oxide. Ethylene oxide is an important intermediate for producing a range of chemicals including ethylene glycol. The most common production method is the Wacker process, which utilizes a palladium/copper system to catalyze the oxidation of ethylene.

Answer 2

The ethylbenzene process typically involves benzene and ethylene as reactants to produce ethylbenzene. In maleic anhydride production, the main recycle and bypass streams involve unreacted feedstock and by-products. Ethylene oxide production involves the oxidation of ethylene in the Wacker process.

Step-by-step explanation:

To identify the main reactant and product process streams for the ethylbenzene process, one needs to review the specific process flow diagram indicated in Figure B.2.1, Appendix B, which is not provided here. However, generally in ethylbenzene production, the main reactants typically include benzene and ethylene, with the principal product being ethylbenzene itself.

For the maleic anhydride production process, the main recycle and bypass streams are typically associated with the unreacted feedstock and by-products that are recirculated to optimize production efficiency and yield. The specific streams would be detailed in Figure B.5.1, Appendix B.

The production of ethylene oxide generally involves the oxidation of ethylene using a homogeneous palladium/copper system in a process known as the Wacker process. Ethylene is a substantial commercial chemical used mainly in manufacturing polyethylene—a familiar plastic. The description of the ethylene oxide production facility, based on Figure B.6.1, Appendix B, would outline the steps and equipment involved in this chemical conversion.