Technology Profile: Allyl chloride production

FIGURE 1. Allyl chloride is an intermediate in the production of epichlorohydrin[/caption] Allyl chloride (3-chloropropene; Figure 1) is primarily used almost exclusively as a chemical intermediate in the production of epichlorohydrin. A three-carbon epoxide, epichlorohydrin is used in the manufacture of epoxy resins prevalent in coatings, adhesives, and plastics. Epichlorohydrin is also used in the manufacture of synthetic glycerine, textiles, paper, inks and dyes, solvents and surfactants. Additionally, allyl chloride is a common alkylating agent relevant to the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and pesticides The vast majority of allyl chloride produced on commercial scale is made from chlorine and propylene, via high-temperature chlorination processes. The uses and applications of allyl chloride may vary according to the product grade. The main form of allyl chloride is commercial grade, with 99 wt.% minimum purity. Production process The process for making allyl chloride from propylene and chloride comprises three major sections: (1) chlorination; (2) propylene recovery; and (3) product treatment (Figure 2). FIGURE 2. The diagram shows the production of allyl chloride[/caption] Chlorination. Liquid propylene is sent…