The main difference between isomerization and reforming is that isomerization converts straight-chain hydrocarbons into their corresponding branched isomers while reforming breaks down large hydrocarbons into smaller, more valuable molecules.
In brief, isomerization and reforming are both processes useful in the petroleum refining industry to convert low-quality hydrocarbons into higher-quality products.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Isomerization
– Definition, Process, Products
2. What is Reforming
– Definition, Process, Products
3. Difference Between Isomerization and Reforming
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Isomerization, Reforming
What is Isomerization
Isomerization is a chemical process in which a molecule undergoes a rearrangement of its atoms, leading to the formation of a new isomer. Isomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements of atoms.
There are different types of isomerization. One of the most common types of isomerization is geometric isomerization. Geometric isomerization results in the same molecular formula, but their atoms are arranged differently in space due to the presence of double bonds. In fact, geometric isomerization is the process of connecting one geometric isomer to another. Another type of isomerization reaction is positional isomerization. Positional isomers have the same molecular formula but differ in the location of a functional group on the carbon chain. Enantiomerrism is a type of isomerization that involves the conversion of one enantiomer to another.
There are many applications of isomerization in the petroleum industry. It helps in the production of gasoline to convert straight-chain hydrocarbons into branched-chain hydrocarbons. These branched-chain hydrocarbons have higher octane numbers than straight-chain hydrocarbons. Isomerization is also useful in the production of polymers. It has also become important in the food industry. The process of converting glucose to fructose is an example of isomerization. This process is used to make high fructose corn syrup, which is used in many processed beverages and food.
Isomerization also plays an important role in the biosynthesis of amino acids and fatty acids. This process requires moderate temperatures and pressures.
What is Reforming
Reforming in chemistry is a processing technique by which the molecular structure of a hydrocarbon is rearranged to alter its properties. This process is frequently applied to low-quality gasoline stocks in order to improve their combustion characteristics. Thermal reforming alters the properties of low-grade naphtha by converting molecules into molecules with higher octane numbers. This involves exposing the materials to high temperatures and pressures.
Catalytic reforming uses a catalyst, usually platinum. There are three separate catalytic reactors in the reforming process. Each takes place under controlled temperature and pressure levels. Here, naphtha is mixed with hydrogen and is fed through each reactor chamber in sequence. Additional hydrogen formed by the catalytic reactors is recovered. It then helps in the subsequent reforming and in other processes throughout the refinery. Reforming gives other products, such as light gases and high-octane gasoline blending components, called reformate.
Moreover, reforming is a very useful process in the petroleum industry. However, this process requires high temperatures and pressures.
Difference Between Isomerization and Reforming
Definition
Isomerization is a chemical process in which a molecule undergoes a rearrangement of its atoms, leading to the formation of a new isomer. On the other hand, reforming in chemistry is a processing technique by which the molecular structure of a hydrocarbon undergoes rearrangement to alter its properties.
Process
While isomerization converts straight-chain hydrocarbons into their corresponding branched isomers, reforming breaks down large hydrocarbons into smaller, more valuable molecules.
Products
Isomerization is used to convert straight-chain hydrocarbons into their branched isomers having higher octane ratings, whereas reforming produces a variety of products, including high-octane gasoline, diesel fuel, and other fuels.
Temperature and Pressure
Isomerization requires moderate temperatures and pressures while reforming requires high temperatures and pressures to obtain the desired reactions.
Conclusion
In brief, isomerization and reforming are processes in the petroleum refining industry that help to convert low-quality hydrocarbons into higher-quality products. The main difference between isomerization and reforming is that isomerization converts straight-chain hydrocarbons into their corresponding branched isomers, while reforming breaks down large hydrocarbons into smaller, more valuable molecules.
Reference:
1. “Isomerization.” Science Direct.
2. “Reforming.” Britannica Encyclopedia.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Fp2-isomerization” By Alsosaid1987 – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Catalytic Reforming” By KatReformer.png: Roland Mattern. The original uploader was Roland1952 at German Wikipedia. Derivative work: Daniele Pugliesi (talk) – KatReformer.png (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
Leave a Reply