Batch and continuous reactors for the production of novolacs

The behaviour of batch and continuous reactors for the production of standard novolacs is discussed theoretically. A kinetic model valid from low to high formaldehyde conversions is used. Results show the influence of the formaldehyde/phenol molar ratio as well as the stated formaldehyde conversion on the composition of the resulting novolac. For the limit of complete segregation, a series of three ideal stirred tanks are shown adequate for the continuous industrial production, at total mean residence times equivalent to those of batch reactors. The influence of partial micromixing is discussed.