Process intensification: spinning disc reactor for condensation polymerisation

Abstract

This paper describes the performance of a thin film reactor in the form of a spinning disc reactor which may be used for continuous condensation polymerisation of esters. Test results suggest that it may be possible to significantly enhance the rate of polymerisation by addressing the mass transfer and mixing limitations thereby performing the reaction at its inherently faster kinetic speed. This technology may provide an opportunity for the intensification of condensation polymerisation processes.