Continuous processes - sustainable manufacturing

Continuous processes are considered to support sustainability in many ways. In general, continuous processes require less energy, less materials and less solvents. The heat exchange is better than in batch reactions and therefore reactions can run in a more precise and steady manner which may improve yield and selectivity: whereas batch processes involve a continuous variation of temperature, pressure and other parameters. In addition, the smaller reaction volumes, compared to batch processes, can be conducted in a safer way and some processes are only possible as continuous processes. In this article, different continuous processes are presented which support sustainability and which are based mostly on conventional multi-purpose equipment. Examples are given for sustainable processes with a complete continuous production process from raw material uptake until final distilled product described.