Petrochemicals & organic chemicals

Alcohols

Alcohols are important solvents and source substances for numerous productions in the chemical industry.

Alcohols with several OH-groups are used for polymerization. Apart from natural alcohols, such as for example glycerin, alcohols are produced by fermentation of basic substances containing starch or sugar.

Short-chained alcohols such as methanol and ethanol are concentrated by way of distillation. Longer-chained alcohols with lower steam volatility can be concentrated in falling-film evaporation plants. The separators are often equipped with scrubbing columns in order to minimize product losses via the steam phase.

The mostly concentrated alcohols in distillation plants are methanol, and ethanol. 2-propanole and n-butanol are concentrated in evaporation plants.

Downloads

GEA Insights

How a digital rotary parlor supports sustainable dairy farming

How do you lead a dairy farm into the next generation while ensuring a sustainable future and animal welfare while managing increasing complexity? This is a question almost every dairy farmer around the world must consider. The...

GEA misison 30 logo

A strategy for the better: CEO interview on GEA's Mission 30

After reaching its Mission 26 targets two years early, GEA launches Mission 2030 strategy with focus on growth, value and making a positive impact.

Blu-Red software accelerates climate-friendly energy tech

Blu-Red software accelerates climate-friendly energy tech

As more communities and businesses rely on district heat pump plants and climate-neutral refrigeration technology, ensuring they provide a continuous supply is of vital importance. GEA’s InsightPartner Blu-Red Care management...

Receive news from GEA

Stay in touch with GEA innovations and stories by signing up for news from GEA.

Need assistance?

We are here to help! With just a few details we will be able to respond to your inquiry.