Continuous loop flow process for polyether polyol production

摘要

The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to compositions, apparatus, methods, and systems that may be used to produce polyols, for example, polyether polyols with a narrow range of molecular weights, with little if any unsaturated byproducts, in a sustained and/or continuous reaction, with efficient heat transfer, and/or at high production rates. For example, in some embodiments, teachings of the disclosure may be used to produce polyether polyols in a continuous loop flow process. A continuous loop flow process may be practiced such that heat is effectively transferred and/or product properties (e.g., range of molecular weights) are controllable. For example, a continuous loop flow process may use one or more continuous flow loops comprising a heat exchanger, a means to move material around each loop, inlets for catalyst, monomer, initiator or starter, and an outlet for polyol product.

主权项

1. An alkoxylation process comprising:
continuously contacting a compound comprising at least one active hydrogen, a compound comprising an alkene oxide, and a double metal cyanide catalyst in a continuous flow loop under conditions that permit formation of a polyether polyol at least in part by alkoxylation; continuously maintaining the spread in flow loop temperature equal to or less than about 5° C.; and continuously maintaining the spread in unreacted alkene oxide concentration in the continuous flow loop at no more than about 2 weight percent.