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)
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- 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.
Show Worked Solution
- 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.