METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONCURRENT REACTION WITH DISTILLATION

摘要

A column (410) having a region for reaction with distillation of fluid streams is provided with structures (428) including catalyst-filled containers (432) having liquid permeable upper surfaces (440) which allow for the accumulation and flow of liquid form a liquid stream. The containers (432) include catalyst beds (434) positioned beneath the upper surface (440) of the containers. A portion of the liquid on the containers is driven through the catalyst bed by the liquid head created by the accumulated liquid and is catalytically reacted. Another portion of the liquid may be directed through a downcomer (444) which allows the accumulated liquid to leave the container without passing through the catalyst bed so that higher volumetric flow rates can be achieved.