Abstract:
The present invention relates to methods, systems, and apparatus for making polyamides having at least two heat-transfer media. The method includes heating a first flowable heat-transfer medium, to provide a heated first flowable heat-transfer medium. The method includes transferring heat from the heated first flowable heat-transfer medium to a second flowable heat-transfer medium, to provide a heated second flowable heat-transfer medium. The method also includes transferring heat from the heated second flowable heat- transfer medium to at least one polyamide-containing component of a polyamide synthesis system.
Abstract:
The invention provides polyester polyol compositions, useful as components of polyurethane and polyisocyanurate polymers, prduced from cyclohexane oxidation reaction byproducts, such as water extracts and non-volatile distillation residues from the reaction. Such byproducts of industrial processes for preparation of adipic acid and caprolactam, important intermediates in the production of various types of nylon, have hitherto largely been used only as fuels. The present invention provides value-added products, methods for making, and methods for using the byproduct-derived polyester polyol compositions. For example, the invention provides polyurethane (PU) and/or polyisocyanurate (PIR) polymers made using the polyol compositions and polyfunctional isocyanates. The PU and PIR polymers can be used as adhesives, binders (e.g., for wood fibers), coatings (e.g., for controlled release fertilizers), and foams.
Abstract:
A system is configured for continuous polyamide synthesis. The system includes a vent condenser and a vacuum pump. The vent condenser is coupled to a polymerization finisher. The vent condenser has a liquid reservoir and a vent discharge port above a level of the liquid reservoir. The vacuum pump is coupled to the vent discharge port by an intake line. The vacuum pump has an output port and a rotary shaft. A gaseous mixture proximate the vent discharge port is removed at a rate determined by a speed of the rotary shaft. The vacuum pump is configured to have a liquid ring seal.
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for manufacturing a polyamide. The method can include obtaining, from a reservoir, an aqueous solution comprising a dicarboxylic acid, a diamine, and water having a substantially liquid phase; concentrating the aqueous solution including transforming a portion of the water having a substantially liquid phase to water having a substantially gaseous phase; condensing the water having a substantially gaseous phase into condensed water having a substantially liquid phase; removing at least one impurity from at least one of the condensed water having a substantially liquid phase and the water having a substantially gaseous phase to produce cleaned water having a substantially liquid phase; and reusing the cleaned water having a substantially liquid phase. The system can include, among other things, a reservoir; an evaporator assembly, in fluid communication with the reservoir; a condensation assembly, in fluid communication with the evaporator assembly; a collection assembly; and a conduit network.