(494c) General Operability Related to Fouling Associated with Polymerization

Operability and capability of chemical plants is often negatively impacted by fouling in unit operations. Efficient control over fouling processes can be the key to economic success of chemical processes. In the presented work, common operability problems of chemical plants triggered by fouling in unit operations are discussed. Strategies to address these problems are presented for example processes. A common mechanism for fouling, i.e. fouling associated with undesired polymerization, is highlighted. The occurrence and importance of undesired polymerization, computational approaches and examples with a variety of chemistries are discussed in some detail. Besides the chemical aspect of fouling, mixing related aspects for prevention of fouling, like e.g. flow conditions in unit operations, are addressed in the presentation.

The intensification of chemical processes by successful control over fouling is demonstrated with examples from chemical processes of The Dow Chemical Company.