DESC: TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of chemical separation
systems and processes, more particularly the present disclosure provides an
efficient and effective system and method for separation of azeotropic mixtures
5 with close boiling points.
BACKGROUND
[0002] An azeotropic mixture is a combination of two or more liquids that exhibit
a unique behavior: their boiling points and vapor-phase compositions are nearly
identical, making them behave as a single substance during phase changes. These
10 mixtures can have either a higher or lower boiling point compared to their
individual components. They are categorized into two primary types: positive
azeotropes (with boiling points lower than the boiling points of their components)
and negative azeotropes (with boiling points higher than the boiling points of their
components).
15 [0003] When the constituents of an azeotropic mixture are completely miscible,
the mixture is classified as a homogeneous azeotropic mixture. Conversely, if the
constituents are not completely miscible, it is known as a heterogeneous azeotropic
mixture. Separating these mixtures is particularly challenging due to the identical
vapor and liquid compositions at the azeotropic point, rendering conventional
20 distillation methods ineffective. To overcome this, advanced separation techniques
such as azeotropic distillation, extractive distillation, pressure-swing distillation,
pervaporation, and adsorption are employed.
[0004] In chemical engineering and laboratory-scale distillation, the separation of
azeotropic mixtures especially those with closely related boiling points—remains a
25 critical yet complex task. A crucial device in this process is the reflux divider, used
We Claim
1. A reflux divider system (100) for separating azeotropic mixtures with close
boiling points, comprising:
5
A reflux divider apparatus 102 comprising a flask (104) having one or more
positions wh