Sains Malaysiana 44(6)(2015): 861–867

A Mini Scale Batch Reactor for the Production of Palm‑Based Polyol

(Reaktor Kelompok Skala Mini bagi Penghasilan Poliol Poliuretana Sawit)

KHAIRIAH HAJI BADRI* & MUHAMMAD SYUKRI NGAH

Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

43600 Bangi, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

Diserahkan: 15 Januari 2014/Diterima: 15 November 2014

ABSTRACT

An investigation on a batch production of palm kernel oil polyol (PKO-p) was conducted via esterification and condensation. The process design was thoroughly studied as a preliminary step for future upscaling. The process variables included necessity of vacuum pump, controlling of heating rate, recording the production time, nitrogen gas flow and agitator speed. About 250 mL PKO-p was successfully synthesized within 3 h. Vacuum pressure was applied to haul out moisture from the system. The control of heating rate and production time are vital to avoid sudden oxidation.

Keywords: Batch reactor; palm-based polyurethane; palm kernel oil polyol; process design

ABSTRAK

Suatu kajian penghasilan poliol minyak isirong sawit (PKO‑p) secara sesekumpul telah dijalankan melalui tindak balas pengesteran dan penyejatan. Reka bentuk proses telah dikaji dengan teliti sebagai langkah awal dalam kajian penskalaan untuk masa hadapan. Pemboleh ubah proses termasuk keperluan pam vakum, pengawalan kadar pemanasan, masa penghasilan yang direkodkan, aliran gas nitrogen dan halaju pengadun. Sebanyak 250 mL PKO‑p telah berjaya disintesis dalam tempoh 3 jam. Tekanan vakum telah digunakan untuk mengeluarkan kelembapan daripada sistem. Pengawalan kadar pemanasan dan masa penghasilan adalah penting untuk mengelakkan pengoksidaan berlaku secara drastik.

Kata kunci: Poliol minyak isirung sawit; poliuretana sawit; reaktor sesekumpul; reka bentuk proses

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*Pengarang untuk surat-menyurat; email: kaybadri@ukm.edu.my