Technology Type

Nitration of Toluene is handled in Two Steps. Formation of the Mononitrotoluene (MNT) is performed with Recycled Acids from Previous Production Batches at approximately a 30/55 (wt/wt%) Ratio. Along with enhancing overall Reagent Efficiency, it has the secondary effect of reducing Nitric Acid in the Sulfuric Acid prior to Sulfuric Acid Regeneration Steps. The initial Mono-Nitration Products consist of 57.5% ortho-, 38.5% para-, and about 4% meta-MNT. Formation of Dinitrotoluene (DNT) is performed with nearly the same Acid Concentrations but at Higher Temperatures. The Yield of the desired 2,4- and 2,6-Dinitro Positional Isomers is approximately 96% and about 4% in other Isomers. Controls against formation of Trinitro Isomers are provided by careful control of Acid Concentrations and Nitration Conditions. Sulfuric acid is regenerated by Removal of Water with Hot Air Stripping