Simulation and optimization of fixed bed solid acid catalyzed isobutane/2-butene alkylation process

The isobutane/2-butene alkylation process using fixed bed arrays as reactors and beta-zeolite as the catalyst is simulated and analyzed. By employing the Lagrange's method, numerical problems that originate from nonlinear reactions and Eulerian girds are neutralized. Sensitivity of operating parameters on process performance are discussed, such as paraffin/olefine ratio, alkylate reflux ratio and liquid velocity. It is found that larger paraffin/ olefine is required for greater olefine to alkylate selectiviy. And alkylate reflux is also necessary to save energy cost in the distillation operations. Alternative configurations such as multiple inlet points and radical bed are discussed. To determine the optimal operating parameters, a techno-economical model is established and optimized. In the final analysis, guidelines for the further design of solid acid catalyzed alkylation process are presented.