Process for the conversion of light ash to absorptive low bulk density alkali products

摘要

A method for production of absorptive particles of Wegscheider's Salt (Na.sub.2 CO.sub.3.3NaHCO.sub.3) having low bulk density and acceptable flow properties, by reaction of anhydrous sodium carbonate particles with water and carbon dioxide is disclosed. Particles of anhydrous sodium carbonate having a bulk density less than about 750 g/l are contacted with water up to 1.55 times the stoichiometric amount of water required for the formation of sodium carbonate monohydrate. Carbon dioxide is added in two stages; in the first, the reaction zone is maintained at ambient temperatures, the second, the reaction zone is preheated and the reaction temperature is maintained at between about 90° and 105. degree. C. until at least about 50 weight percent Wegscheider's Salt is produced. Water is added to the carbon dioxide in the second stage if less than about 1.20 times the stoichiometric amount of water is added to the particles of anhydrous sodium carbonate in the first stage and when about 1.20 to 1.55 of the stoichiometric amount of water is added to the particles of anhydrous sodium carbonate in the first stage substantially dry carbon dioxide is used in both stages. 2