Devices, processes and methods for the production of lower alkyl esters

Abstract

Embodiments of a process for production of biodiesel from a transesterification reaction of alcohol and triglycerides in a multi-zone tubular reactor is disclosed. Alkyl esters and glycerin are formed from reactants in a reaction mixture as the reaction mixture flows through the zones. The zones include an entrance zone, an exit zone, and an intermediate zone between the entrance and exit zones. The zones are characterized by physical properties such as viscosity, density, composition, and flow regime. The entrance and intermediate zones include static mixers that perform structured mixing that increases the conversion and yield. The degree of mixing provided by the mixers is different in the zones to account for differences in physical properties. Additionally, the product stream from the reactor is passed through a coalescer to increase droplet size of a dispersed glycerin phase, facilitating both rapid separation of the glycerin phase from the biodiesel phase, and increased conversion and yield in a decanter.