The flow chart summarises an industrial process for the synthesis of ethane-1,2-diol.
Explain THREE factors that may have been considered in the design of this industrial process. Make specific reference to the flow chart. (4 marks)
→ A catalyst is utilised in reactions 1 and 2 to increase the rate of reaction by lowering the activation energy.
→ Additionally, moderate temperatures are utilised to increase the average kinetic energy of the molecules, increasing the likelihood of successful collisions.
→ These factors reduce energy consumption and make the process more economically viable.
→ Separators were used to separate and recycle the unused reactant gases. Ensuring that the resources were not wasted, again increases the efficiency and economic sustainability of the design.
→ The availability of reagents should be taken into account by locating the process close to a pretrochemical or industrial plant, where ethylene and oxygen gases are readily available.
Other possible answers:
→ It is critical that the market for the major end product, ethane-1,2-diol, is assessed beforehand. This would involve researching demand for the product, expected market price, and the associated methods and costs of transport of the product to the end customers.
→ The usage and demand for the by-products of this process is another key factor that addresses the wastage and economics of production.
→ A catalyst is utilised in reactions 1 and 2 to increase the rate of reaction by lowering the activation energy.
→ Additionally, moderate temperatures are utilised to increase the average kinetic energy of the molecules, increasing the likelihood of successful collisions.
→ These factors reduce energy consumption and make the process more economically viable.
→ Separators were used to separate and recycle the unused reactant gases. Ensuring that the resources were not wasted again increases the efficiency and economic sustainability of the design.
→ The availability of reagents should be taken into account by locating the process close to a pretrochemical or industrial plant, where ethylene and oxygen gases are readily available.
Other possible answers:
→ It is critical that the market for the major end product, ethane-1,2-diol, is assessed beforehand. This would involve researching demand for the product, expected market price, and the associated methods and costs of transport of the product to the end customers.
→ The usage and demand for the by-products of this process is another key factor that addresses the wastage and economics of production.