How the methane to hydrogen ratio affects the ethylene yield in the demethanization tower
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I’d like some advice regarding the distillation of ethylene. The books state that the main factors affecting the ethylene yield in the demethanization tower are operating temperature, pressure, and the methane/hydrogen ratio. Could those who know more explain how this methane/hydrogen ratio influences the ethylene yield? Thank you
After discussing it, I seem to understand now. Normally, methane and ethylene can be separated relatively easily; however, the presence of non-condensable gases such as hydrogen reduces their relative volatility. As a result, more cooling capacity and lower temperatures are required at the top of the tower to achieve separation. Due to insufficient conditions, some of the ethylene and even ethane fail to condense, leading to losses and a decrease in yield