- Hits: 382
Protocol Acetic Anhydride Production 16.02.2024
I. Introduction
"Acetic anhydride, a key ingredient in aspirin production, is a versatile chemical used in various industries." In this experiment, we will synthesize acetic anhydride from acetic acid and sodium bicarbonate.
II. Materials and Equipment
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Lab coat
- Reactor
- Condenser
- Temperature sensor x3
- Pressure sensor x2
- Flow sensor x2
- Heater
- Mixer
- Stainless steel tanks x4
- Vinegar (74.5L)
- Sodium bicarbonate (4.88kgs)
- Acetyl chloride (3.77L)
III. Procedure
- In the “Reactor”, Turn ON the mixer
Add 74.5L vinegar and 4.88kgs sodium acetate periodically to avoid fizzing reaction [Rx 1]
- Turn ON the heating system in the jacket to reach 120 °C until the formation of sodium acetate to create anhydrous conditions
- Cooldown between 50-80 °C, add 3.77L acetyl chloride and Turn ON the mixer [Rx 2]
- Add 5L of toluene as “solvent” acts as a reaction medium and facilitator, enhancing interaction, controlling temperature, and aiding product isolation.
- After the reaction completed, turn ON the water circulation in the condenser to start the distillation by turn ON the heating to 110 °C to evaporate the acetone (tank P1).
- increase the temperature to 140 °C to evaporate the Acetic Anhydride (tank P2).
- Turn OFF the system, test the purity and the yield of acetic anhydride
Safety
-Toluene: Sweet aroma, hidden dangers - inhalation, skin, and fire risks; long-term impacts on organs, development, and nervous system.
-Acetyl chloride: corrosive, flammable, explosive, lung irritant, potential carcinogen.
-Acetic anhydride: highly corrosive, burns eyes and skin, inhaling damages lungs, potential carcinogen, flammable, and reacts violently with many substances.
⚠️ Always wear gloves and safety goggles when handling these chemicals