Sizing a CSTR for transesterification reaction

Click For Summary
To size a Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) for the transesterification of triglycerides into methyl esters, it is essential to account for the three reversible reaction steps involving triglycerides, diglycerides, and monoglycerides. The user has the reaction rate constants but is uncertain about integrating the multi-step and reversible aspects into a single model. A mass balance for each species in the reactor is crucial for determining the reactor volume and operational parameters. The discussion seeks guidance on formulating these mass balance equations effectively. Properly addressing these equations will facilitate accurate sizing of the CSTR for optimal biodiesel production.
Jack Thompson
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Hi,

I need to size a CSTR for the transesterification of tri-glycerides into methyl esters (bio-diesel) by reaction with methanol and NaOH catalyst.

The transesterification reaction taken place in 3 reversible steps:
TG + CH3OH <--> DG + ME
DG + CH3OH <--> MG + ME
MG + CH3OH <--> C3H8O3 + ME

Where: TG = Triglyceride DG = Di-Glyceride MG = Monoglyceride ME = Methyl Esters

I have the reaction rate constants for each of the forward and reverse reactions, however, I'm stuck there.
I know how to size a multi-step CSTR or a reversible reaction CSTR but not a combination of the two.

Please help!
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
Let's see your mass balance equations for all the species in the reactor
 

Thread 'Need to anneal 5052 aluminum'

I need to anneal 5052 aluminum for a home project. Google has given me mixed results on how to do this. Short version is that I'm doing some heavy forming on a piece of 5052-H32 and I'm running into issues with it work hardening. I've tried the Sharpie trick with a propane torch. But I'm not sure this is doing anything. I'm also seeing conflicting opinions whether to quench or air cool. So I'm looking for some expert opinions. (Oven heating is not an option due to size.) Thanks. edit: The...
View full post »