Dimethyl ether (DME, CH3OCH3) is a synthetically produced alternative to diesel for use in specially designed compression ignition diesel engines. Under normal atmospheric conditions, DME is a colorless gas. It is used extensively in the chemical industry and as an aerosol propellant. DME can be produced directly from synthesis gas (CO and H2) produced from natural gas, coal, or biomass. It can also be produced indirectly from methanol via a dehydration reaction.
Reaction:
2CH3OH > CH3OCH3 + H2O
X kg H2O / mH2O.out hr
MCH3OH.in Reactor / Y kg CH3OCH3 > mCH3OCH3.out 100 kg CH3OH hr hr mCH3OH.out (90 kg CH3OH hr
What are the mass flow rates of the Water (H2O, X) and Dimethylether (CH3OCH3, Y)? Note: You must explain in detail how you solved the problem.