APPARATUS FOR THE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION OF METHYL HYDROXYALKYL CELLULOSE

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To produce a large amount of MHAC extremely economically, while certainly and simultaneously performing actions of removing generated heat to avoid local temperature peaks; controlling pressure rise safely; nearly preventing accumulation of products at the product changeover; suppressing side reaction products; and obtaining products with uniform substitution patterns. SOLUTION: The apparatus for industrially producing methyl hydroxyalkyl celluloses (MHACs) by the reaction of cellulose with an alkali metal hydroxide and subsequent reaction with an alkyl halide and a hydroxy alkylating agent includes a reactor which has an L/D ratio of less than 2.5. The reaction is carried out batchwise in a reactor in which the unmixed regions are minimized and the batch reactor is preceded at the inlet by a continuously operated cellulose milling facility and is followed at the outlet by a continuously running plant for milling and drying the products. The product is transported by the action of gravity. COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT