Newbie’s question: What is the concept of the optimal composition of the raw ammonia brine in the ammonia-soda process for producing soda ash? ?
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What is the concept of the optimal composition of the raw ammonia brine in the ammonia-soda process for producing soda ash? ?
It refers to the ammonia-to-salt ratio, which is a very important indicator. It has a significant impact on the subsequent carbonation conversion rate. Therefore, it serves both as an operational indicator and an indirect economic indicator. Hence, it is crucial to control the absorption process properly, as well as the concentrations of ammonia and salt, so that the ammonia-to-salt ratio remains within a certain range.
Newcomers should be given plenty of guidance. Indeed, the ammonia-to-salt ratio is very important. It’s great to ask questions on forums; you can also consult more experienced mentors.
This post was last edited by mkp369 on 2013-3-31 07:20. 1# shiguomiao: Selection of NaCl/NH3 ratios: To obtain a solution with a high ammonia concentration after ammonia absorption, as well as to maximize the utilization rate of raw materials and equipment, it is necessary to choose an appropriate NH3/NaCl ratio in production. According to the reaction equation, the ratio of NH3 to NaCl should be 1:1 (in terms of number of molecules). If the ammonia absorption is insufficient, then some sodium chloride will inevitably remain undecomposed, thereby increasing the consumption of raw salt. Conversely, if too much ammonia is absorbed, it reduces the solubility of sodium chloride; as a result, excess NH4HCO3 crystallizes together with NaHCO3, thereby lowering the utilization rate of ammonia. In actual production, there is a slight excess of NH3. Based on our production experience, the optimal ratio of NH3 to NaCl is 1.110–1.140; a slightly higher amount of NH3 is used to compensate for the ammonia lost during the carbonation of brine.
The ammonia salt ratio is a key indicator for absorption; it is an effective means of ensuring the carbonation conversion rate and preventing the alkali truck from being clogged by ammonium bicarbonate.
During initial startup, the ammonia-to-salt ratio should not be too high.