Key Considerations in the Synthesis of Dimethyl Silicone Oil
Among the materials widely used in numerous fields nowadays, dimethyl silicone oil has gradually become familiar to the public. It has stable properties, is inert, odorless, non-toxic, and possesses excellent chemical stability, electrical insulation, and weather resistance. Its alkali resistance is particularly outstanding, so it plays an important role in all aspects of industrial and agricultural production. However, do you know what key points need to be thoroughly considered when synthesizing this highly functional dimethyl silicone oil?
For the synthesis process of dimethyl silicone oil, it is crucial to control the details of the process. Initially, the conventional operation was to let it react for 4 hours, followed by a 1-hour neutralization treatment, and then undergo a 4-hour devolatilization process. Through this, the volatile components could reach 1.8% and the yield was 79%. However, with technological exploration and optimization, the process has been adjusted. It has become reacting for 4 hours, neutralizing for 1 hour, and then leaving it overnight. On the next day, a 4 - 6-hour devolatilization operation is carried out. After this improvement, the volatile components are reduced to 0.65%, but the yield also drops to 56%. Facing this change in yield, there are many underlying factors that may affect the synthesis effect and are in urgent need of in-depth analysis.
Firstly, the degree of catalyst neutralization is a crucial factor. If the catalyst fails to be completely neutralized during the devolatilization stage, the equilibration reaction will continue. During this process, since dimethyl carbonate (DMC), which is a raw material, is continuously removed from the reaction system, according to the principle of chemical equilibrium, DMC will also be continuously generated in the system. Repeatedly, the unnecessary consumption of raw materials will ultimately greatly reduce the yield of dimethyl silicone oil.
Secondly, the amount of acetic acid cannot be ignored either. If acetic acid is added in excess, it will trigger a degradation reaction, and the by-product of this reaction is also DMC. The abnormal generation and accumulation of DMC will not only disrupt the expected rhythm of the synthesis reaction but also occupy raw materials and consume energy, further reducing the final yield of dimethyl silicone oil.
Thirdly, in addition to accurately adjusting the ratio of alkali and acid required for the synthesis of silicone oil, the operational accuracy of the operators when carrying out the devolatilization process has a direct impact on the yield. For example, if the operator cannot accurately control the degree of vacuum during devolatilization, it is very likely that the silicone oil that has not yet been fully synthesized and stabilized will be drawn out together during the vacuum pumping process. This undoubtedly causes a waste of materials and leads to a reduction in the yield.
In conclusion, the synthesis of dimethyl silicone oil requires attention to all the above-mentioned points. Moreover, during the storage of the finished dimethyl silicone oil products, we also cannot afford to be careless. It is necessary to keep it away from corrosive substances such as acids and alkalis as well as dangerous factors like open flames to ensure its quality and safety, so that dimethyl silicone oil can continuously and stably play its role in various application scenarios.