A new synthesis route to caprolactam was developed by DSM and laid down in several patents. At the University of Twente, an interpretation of this Altam process was made resulting in a complete process design. The instruments of the conceptual design method and the use of the process simulator Aspen Plu proved to be very effective in attacking a complex process design project within a limited time frame. The essence of the conceptual design method is to start with a basic design and consequently adding successive layers of detail. In this way the method proved to be very effective in identifying opportunities for Process Intensification. The design, which is based on the starting materials butadiene and carbon monoxide, showed to be an attractive alternative for the conventional processes based on aromatic feedstock.
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