KINETICS OF BENZYL CHLORIDE PRODUCTION IN A BENCH REACTOR UNDER PRESSURE WITH STIRRER (TECHNICAL NOTE)

Benzyl chloride is economically one of the most important starting materials for a large number of industrial syntheses. Far too much money is now spent to buy and import this valuable product. The production of benzyl chloride has been recognized as one of our national projects and budgeted by the National Iranian Petrochemical Organization in order to economize on the country’s foreign exchange. It is certain that obtaining a broad spectrum of scientific information must take priority. A part of this information consists of the kinetics of the reaction, resistance of the used materials, the proper gas-liquid ratio for efficient production, the best range of temperature, etc. Much attention has also been paid to the development of kinetic models, to the design of the reactor, the effects of agitators and inhibitors. The kinetics of thermal chlorination of toluene without catalyst in a semi-batch reactor in a temperature range of 80-100°C and a pressure range of 1-3atm has been investigated. The reactor had an approximate volume of 7 liters. It was equipped with condenser and electric heater and necessary measuring instruments. The reactor was made of SS-316. Since certain metallic impurities such as iron act as a catalyst for ring chlorination and self-condensation, their presence must be avoided. Consequently, a special resistant lining, PTFE, was used for coating the reactor interior. The rate of initial reactants conversion and the production of benzyl chloride in atemperature range of 80-100°C and a pressure range of 1-3atm with an optimized situation consideration and maximum efficiency of production have been determined.