Reactor for the gas phase nitration of cellulose

Abstract

A continuous process is provided for the vapor phase nitration of cellulose n a novel reactor having a gas tight housing containing a table with a perforated surface. Cellulose in porous sheet form is continuously passed into the reactor over the perforated table while continuously introducing nitric acid vapor into the housing through the perforations to provide a cushion of nitric acid gas supporting the sheet and forcing nitric acid vapor through the porous sheet. Water vapor formed in the reaction and unreacted nitric acid vapor are continuously removed from the housing, together with the nitrocellulose sheet produced. The rate at which the cellulose sheet is passed through the reactor depends on the rate at which the nitric acid is introduced and the degree of nitration desired. The cellulose can be partially nitrated by the novel process and further nitrated with nitric acid in liquid phase. The process produces a uniform nitrocellulose product suitable for use in propellants.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.