Optimization of a Hydrogenation Process using Real-Time Mid-IR, Heat Flow and Gas Uptake Measurements

摘要

This paper describes using real-time mid-IR, heat flow, and gas uptake data to optimize the hydrogenation of a nitroaromatic to an aniline that had been difficult to control during a previous campaign in the pilot plant. A bimetallic Pt/V catalyst was identified that eliminated the buildup of reaction intermediates and consequently resulted in an inherently more controllable process. The real-time analytics were then used to rapidly optimize the reaction conditions and develop strategies for controlling the reaction rate in the plant should an unexpected deviation occur.