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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
13:09
Utilization of Stop-flow Micro-tubing Reactors for the Development of Organic Transformations
Published on: January 4, 2018
Gas-liquid selective oxidations with oxygen under explosive conditions in a micro-structured reactor
Arnaud Leclerc1, Mohamad Alamé, Daniel Schweich
1LGPC, CNRS CPE Lyon, 69616, Villeurbanne, France.
Lab on a Chip
|April 25, 2008
Summary
This study demonstrates safe, high-temperature and pressure cyclohexane oxidation in a microreactor. The process uses pure oxygen, enabling reactions beyond the typical flammability limits for enhanced chemical synthesis.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Engineering
- Reaction Engineering
- Process Safety
Background:
- Cyclohexane oxidation is a key industrial process.
- Operating at high temperatures and pressures increases reaction efficiency but poses safety risks due to flammability.
- Microreactors offer enhanced control over reaction conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the gas-liquid oxidation of cyclohexane.
- To explore reaction conditions exceeding the flammability limit.
- To demonstrate the utility of microreactors for safe, high-pressure oxidations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Pyrex-capped, silicon-etched microreactor.
- Employed pure oxygen as the oxidant.
- Conducted reactions at temperatures above 200°C and pressures up to 25 bar.
Main Results:
- Successfully performed gas-liquid oxidation of cyclohexane under demanding conditions.
- Demonstrated safe operation well above the flammability limit.
- Microreactor design facilitated convenient screening of reaction parameters.
Conclusions:
- Microreactors are suitable for conducting hazardous reactions like cyclohexane oxidation safely.
- High temperature and pressure conditions can be safely managed in microreactors.
- This approach allows for efficient exploration of reaction parameters beyond conventional safety margins.
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