Vacuum methods play an essential part in the manufacturing and processing of a wide variety of chemicals, whether the objective is to remove moisture, oxygen, or air. Providing a clean and inert environment for chemical reactions to occur is critical to manufacturing pure goods on which we depend every day.
The chemical industry's so-called 'air-free' processes include the elimination of undesired reactants such as water, oxygen, and nitrogen to produce a condition in which no unwanted by-products are created. Argon (or in less reactive instances, N2), an inert gas, is often used to substitute these molecules to assure purity and efficiency in production.
Air-Free Methods
The first method, glovebox, is one of two basic ones used in a chemist's laboratory to create an "air-free" atmosphere. That entails the removal of particles from a sizable container filled with inert gas and secured with gloves to enable the handling of equipment in the appropriate environment. A copper catalyst often removes oxygen from such a device. The molecules are captured by the metal surface, where they are turned into copper oxide and stored away from any potential reactions. Typically, a Rotary pump works to create the vacuum in this approach.
Utilizing a Schlenk line is the second approach. Glassware with tight "quick fit" joints creates an airtight environment for chemical reactions. Reactants are introduced via cannulas through a rubber septum that reseals after being punctured. Compared to a glove box, this method offers a more manipulative approach where skill is enhanced. This technology continually removes and replaces inert molecules using a vacuum pump, such as a rotary pump.
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Case Analysis: Chloride of Titanium
Every year, the globe produces 250,000 tons of titanium for applications as diverse as aeronautical engineering and medical prostheses. Titanium chloride (TiCl4), a byproduct of the Schlenk line process, accounts for almost all of the pure titanium utilized in industry. You may see the formation's chemical process, shown here:
2FeTiO3 + 7Cl2 + 6C → 2TiCl4 + 2FeCl3 + 6CO
This process uses ilmenite, an iron/titanium mineral. More so than the chlorine in this reaction, the titanium must be ejected from any reaction vessel because of its high reactivity with oxygen and water. That reaction produces pure TiCl4 under vacuum-inert conditions.
Final Thoughts
Maximizing production, minimizing costs, and providing effective materials for many applications are crucial to the chemical industry's success. Vacuum technology is essential for manufacturing fertilizers, cell phones, food packaging, and spaceships. You must select your equipment carefully and choose a reliable provider. We know our customers want the best quality, for the best price, with exceptional, and exacting performance. We’ve seen almost everything regarding vacuum technology, as we have been in business since 1969. We carry Welch, Pfeiffer Adixen, Leybold, Edwards, and more, because they are simply the best vacuum pumps for sale. Contact us for more information!