Reaction rate model for Diethyl Ether from Etano l using heterogeneous catalysts

Production of diethyl ether from ethanol was carried out by a heterogeneous catalytic reaction in the gas phase. Several types of catalysts were examined in a tubular reactor. Among different catalysts γ-aluminum oxide was selected as the most effective and suitable catalyst. Based on high conversion rate, the optimum temperature for the reaction was determined at 285 deg C. The experiments were carried out in a differential (plug) reactor to obtain rate equation. The parameters affecting the rate equation are listed as: flow rate of feed stream, composition of feed stream, concentration of ethanol and adsorption coefficients. An optimum flow rate of 1 ml/min of ethanol was defined as desired operating condition. Langmuir-Henshelwood model was chosen for the determination of adsorption coefficient. The Langmuir equation was transformed into linear equation and the relevant coefficients were calculated by least square method. A computer program was used to solve the system of simultaneous linear equations. The experimental results were then compared with the rate equation proposed by using Langmuir-Henshelwood adsorption model. The experimental data obtained in the dehydration of ethanol to diethyl ether, show good agreement with proposed model