Convert Ethyl alcohol to ethylene glycol ?

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Answer

Answer

Conversion of Ethyl Alcohol to Ethylene Glycol

Ethylene glycol is an important chemical compound used in various industrial applications such as antifreeze, coolants, and solvents. It is also used in the production of polyester fibers and resins. Ethyl alcohol can be converted into ethylene glycol through a process called hydrolysis.

Hydrolysis Reaction

The hydrolysis reaction involves the reaction of ethyl alcohol with a strong acid catalyst such as sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid.

Reaction:

C2H5OH + H2SO4 → C2H4(OH)2 + H2SO4

Process

The process for the conversion of ethyl alcohol to ethylene glycol involves the following steps:

Step 1: Ethyl alcohol is mixed with a strong acid catalyst such as sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid in a reactor vessel.

Step 2: The mixture is heated to a temperature of around 180-200°C and maintained at this temperature for several hours.

Step 3: The reaction mixture is cooled down and neutralized with a base such as sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide.

Step 4: The resulting mixture is then distilled to remove any remaining impurities and excess alcohol.

Step 5: The final product, ethylene glycol, is obtained as a colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid.

Uses of Ethylene Glycol

Ethylene glycol is widely used in various industrial applications such as:

Antifreeze and coolants for automobile engines and other machinery.

Solvents for paints, inks, and dyes.

Deicing agents for aircraft and runways.

Production of polyester fibers and resins.

Manufacturing of hydraulic fluids and brake fluids.

The conversion of ethyl alcohol to ethylene glycol is an important process in the chemical industry and has numerous industrial applications.

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