Decarboxylation Reactor

Product Overview

The decarboxylation reactor, specifically the TDC-100L stainless steel laboratory decarboxylation reactor, is a piece of equipment designed specifically for decarboxylation reactions. This reactor is used for the reaction where carboxylic acid molecules lose their carboxyl group (-COOH) to release carbon dioxide, i.e., the decarboxylation reaction [R-COOH → RH + CO2]. The reactor is equipped with a large-area condenser for enhanced cooling, and features a reflux design to support various functions. It is suitable for thermochemical decarboxylation, photo-electrochemical decarboxylation, catalytic decarboxylation, and other decarboxylation methods, particularly for chemical reactions requiring precise control of temperature, pressure, and stirring speed.

Product Features

1. Specialized Design:

   The decarboxylation reactor is specifically designed for decarboxylation reactions, where carboxylic acids lose their carboxyl group to form hydrocarbons and carbon dioxide.

2. High-Pressure and High-Temperature Resistance:

   The reactor can withstand high working pressures and temperatures, making it suitable for reactions carried out under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions.

3. Precise Temperature Control:

   The decarboxylation reactor is equipped with a precise temperature control system to ensure accurate temperature regulation during the reaction, which is crucial for decarboxylation processes.

4. Corrosion-Resistant Materials:

   Typically made from stainless steel, the reactor offers excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for use with various chemical media.

5. Condenser Equipped:

   The reactor is usually equipped with a condenser to cool down the gases produced during the reaction, improving reaction efficiency.

6. Safety Features:

   The decarboxylation reactor includes multiple safety features, such as rupture discs, safety valves, and temperature/pressure alarm systems, to ensure the safety of the operator.

Application Areas

1. Chemical Industry:

   The decarboxylation reactor is widely used in the chemical industry for process control and research in reactions such as synthesis, sublimation, dehydration, desulfurization, oxidation, and reduction.

2. Biotechnology Industry:

   In the biotechnology field, the decarboxylation reactor is used for the experimental preparation of pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and special materials.

3. Pharmaceutical Industry:

   The reactor plays a key role in the pharmaceutical industry for drug synthesis, including both chemical and biosynthetic reactions, as well as drug refinement and purification processes.

4. Petrochemical Industry:

   The decarboxylation reactor is also applied in the petrochemical industry for specific chemical reaction processes.

5. Food Industry:

   In the food industry, the decarboxylation reactor is used for fermentation reactions, mixing and stirring, thermal processing, and the production of food additives.

Working Principle

The working principle of the decarboxylation reactor is to carry out the decarboxylation reaction inside a sealed stainless steel container. This reaction involves carboxylic acid molecules losing their carboxyl group (-COOH) to generate carbon dioxide and the corresponding hydrocarbon. Heat is provided through electrical heating or jacket heating systems, and a built-in stirrer ensures that the reactants are uniformly mixed. At the same time, the reactor is equipped with temperature and pressure control systems to precisely regulate reaction conditions. Safety devices such as safety valves and pressure gauges are included to ensure operational safety and prevent overpressure. This design enables the decarboxylation reactor to meet the requirements of various chemical reactions, facilitating efficient reaction processes.

Precautions

1. Equipment Inspection:

   Before use, carefully inspect the reactor for any cracks. If cracks are found, the reactor should be discarded. Damaged or deformed liners must be replaced.

2. No Overheating or Overpressurization:

   The decarboxylation reactor should never be operated beyond the specified temperature and pressure limits to avoid safety hazards.

3. Material Loading Restrictions:

   The internal cup of the reactor should be filled no more than 80% of its capacity, with a typical maximum load of half to prevent dangerous reactions caused by excessive pressure.

4. Exothermic or Gas-Producing Reactions:

   Reactions that produce a large amount of heat or gas should not be carried out in the reactor to avoid the risk of overpressure.

5. Oven Temperature Control:

   Ensure that the oven temperature does not exceed safe limits. During heating, maintain a safe distance from the oven to avoid potential explosion hazards.

6. Safety When Opening the Reactor:

   Always wait for the decarboxylation reactor to cool completely before opening it. Even then, exercise caution as the reactor may still contain gases.

7. Sealing Check:

   After discharging the material, ensure the reactor lid is properly sealed. When purging the reactor with nitrogen, perform a leak test to ensure no leaks are present.

8. Personal Protection:

   Operators should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including knee-length laboratory coats, chemical splash goggles, shoes with no mesh openings, heat-resistant gloves, and full-face shields.

After-Sales Service

1. 24/7 Customer Service:

   We provide round-the-clock phone support to ensure that customers can reach our service team at any time.

2. Spare Parts Service:

   We offer essential spare parts support to ensure timely repairs and replacements for the decarboxylation reactor.

3. Regular Maintenance:

   We provide regular maintenance services to help customers extend the lifespan of the reactor and maintain optimal performance.

4. Operation Videos:

   We offer operation videos to help customers better understand the process and operation of the reactor.

5. Downloadable User Manual:

   Customers can easily download product brochures and user manuals for better understanding of the reactor's features and operating instructions.

6. Professional Consultation Services:

   Our team offers 24/7 professional consultation services, on-site installation training, and support.

7. Technical Support:

   With two R&D centers and a team of experienced researchers from both China and the USA, we provide cutting-edge technical support from our partner universities.

8. After-Sales Service Team:

   We have established a dedicated after-sales service team, offering personalized product solutions, available 24/7 to address any product issues.

FAQ

Q: What are the main decarboxylation pathways?

A: The main decarboxylation pathways are thermochemical decarboxylation, photo-electrochemical decarboxylation, and catalytic decarboxylation.

Q: What preparations are needed before operating the decarboxylation reactor?

A: Before operation, check the reactor’s sealing performance, ensure the grounding of the power supply, prepare the required reagents and experimental equipment, and prepare the necessary solutions according to the experimental plan.

Q: How should sealing leaks be addressed in the decarboxylation reactor?

A: Sealing leaks may involve issues with packing seals or mechanical seals. To address this, replace or repair the agitator shaft and process it on a lathe to ensure proper roughness. Tighten or replace the packing as necessary.

Q: What should be considered when cleaning and maintaining the decarboxylation reactor?

A: During cleaning, use cleaning agents to remove residue from the reactor body and sealing surfaces, keeping them clean. Avoid using hard or rough cleaning materials. During maintenance, regularly check the wear of the agitator bearings and seals, and replace them promptly when necessary.