| abstract |
Impurities that are carbonyl-containing organic compounds (e.g., acetaldehyde) are removed from organic hydrocarbons produced in conventional production facilities. The process comprises contacting the hydrocarbon product (e.g., butadiene) with an aqueous "scrubbing solution," containing a water soluble reducing agent (e.g., NaHSO 3 ) in slightly greater amount than is theoretically required for complete reaction with the carbonyl compounds, in an in-line mixing means and then passing the mixture to a phase separator to separate the layers. The resulting "scrubbed" hydrocarbon product is substantially purified (e.g., to as low as less than 2 ppm carbonyl compounds). An optional second mixer and scrubbing tower are provided as a back-up system in case of surge conditions or maintenance of the first system. |