Rektifikatsioon

Rektifikatsioon is a term used in chemistry and chemical engineering to describe the process of fractional distillation, specifically when separating a liquid mixture into its constituent parts based on differences in their boiling points. This technique is employed to achieve a higher degree of separation and purity than can be obtained through simple distillation. A rectifying column, also known as a fractionating column, is the key piece of equipment used in rektifikatsioon.

The rectifying column is designed to provide a large surface area or a series of trays or packing material. As the vapor from the boiling mixture rises through the column, it cools and condenses. This condensate then comes into contact with the rising hot vapor, allowing for repeated vaporization and condensation cycles. Each cycle effectively enriches the vapor with the more volatile component (lower boiling point) and the liquid with the less volatile component (higher boiling point).

The efficiency of rektifikatsioon depends on factors such as the height and design of the column, the difference in boiling points between the components, and the reflux ratio, which is the ratio of the condensed liquid returned to the column to the amount of product removed. By carefully controlling these parameters, highly pure substances can be obtained. Rektifikatsioon is widely used in industries such as petroleum refining, alcohol production, and the separation of various industrial chemicals.