Ethylene (C2H4) can be converted to acetylene (C2H2) through a process called thermal cracking or pyrolysis. Here's a simplified description of the process:
Preparing the Reactor: The reaction typically takes place in a tubular reactor that can withstand high temperatures. The reactor is heated to the desired temperature.
Feedstock Preparation: Ethylene gas is introduced into the reactor as the feedstock. It can be obtained from various sources, such as natural gas or petroleum.
Thermal Cracking: The ethylene molecules undergo thermal cracking when exposed to high temperatures (usually around 800-1200°C or 1470-2190°F) in the presence of a catalyst. This process breaks the carbon-carbon double bond in ethylene, forming acetylene.
Separation and Purification: The cracked gas mixture containing acetylene, along with other by-products and impurities, is cooled down. Various separation and purification techniques, such as fractional distillation or selective adsorption, can be employed to separate and isolate acetylene from other gases.
It's important to note that the process of converting ethylene to acetylene can be complex and may involve additional steps and considerations, depending on the specific industrial setup and requirements. Additionally, safety precautions must be taken due to the highly reactive and potentially explosive nature of acetylene. Professional expertise and adherence to proper handling procedures are crucial when working with acetylene and other volatile gases.