Isothermal Semi-Batch Reactor Apparatus

An isothermal semi-batch reactor is a semi-closed system with one input stream. It is operated under conditions like Isothermal (Temperature of Reaction Mass remains constant) and perfectly mixed (composition of the reaction mixture is uniform throughout). This setup is used to study a non-catalytic homogeneous reaction under isothermal conditions. The setup consists of a Reactor fitted in a constant temperature water bath. Before starting the reaction the reactor is charged with a measured quantity of one reactant. From a feed tank, another reactant is fed to the reactor. Using a sampling pipette samples can be taken out for analysis after a fixed interval. Rotameter is provided to measure the flow of chemicals. Compressed air is used for the circulation of feed. One stirrer is fitted for mixing the reactants in the reactor and the other is fitted in a water bath to keep the uniform temperature throughout the bath. The temperature of the bath can be maintained from ambient to 70ºC with the help of the Digital Temperature indicator Cum Controller. Pressure Regulator, Pressure Gauge and Safety Valve are fitted in the compressed airline

Experimentation/Learning Objectives
• To study a second-order saponification reaction in a Semi-Batch Reactor.
• To determine the Reaction Rate Constant.

Utilities Required
• Electricity Supply: Single Phase, 220 VAC, 50 Hz, 5-15 Amp combined socket with earth connection. Earth voltage should be less than 5 volts.
• Compressed Air Supply: 0.5 CFM@1bar
• Water Supply & drain.
• Floor Area Required: 1 m x 0.75 m. • Instruments, Laboratory wares, and Chemicals required for analysis as per the system adopted.