Problem 4-1-Butanol reactor variations

The dehydration of 1-butanol to isobutene is run as an equilibrium-limited reaction

with Keq = 2.4 atm at T = 323 K. The gas-phase reactor is operated at 1atm total

pressure, and the feed is to contain 10 mole/min 1-butanol.

(CH3)3COH -- (CH3)2C=CH2 + H₂O

a) Calculate the equilibrium conversion expected when the feed is pure 1-butanol

vapor. Also report the outlet composition and total molar flow rate.

b) Calculate the equilibrium conversion expected if this reactor is operated at a total

pressure of 0.2 atm. Also report the outlet composition and total molar flow rate.

c) It is common to add nitrogen or another inert gas to the feed stream to increase the

butanol conversion. Calculate the fractional conversion of butanol expected when

the feed is 20 mole% 1-butanol and 80 mole% nitrogen, at the same total pressure

and butanol flow rate as before. Also report the outlet composition and total molar

flow rate.

d) Comment briefly on the difference between the conversions expected for these

conditions. Give advantages and disadvantages of each plan.