Use of a Reverse-Flow Chromatographic Reactor To Enhance Productivity in Consecutive Reaction Systems

A reverse-flow chromatographic reactor can be used to improve the yield and selectivity for a consecutive reaction system (A -B -C) beyond the values obtained from conventional plug-flow reactors (PFRs) in the case where the reactants are more strongly adsorbed than the products. It is also simpler than conventional chromatographic, moving, and simulated moving beds and other systems that combine reaction and adsorption separation. The results of the study show the robustness and stability of the system, its capacity to significantly improve the range of yield and selectivity that can be achieved, and the advantage of decoupling the relationship between yield and selectivity found in a PFR.