A review of ternary azeotropic mixtures advanced separation strategies

In most multi-component systems, the predominant non-ideality occurs which lead to the occurrence of an azeotrope. The ternary systems classification and study are summarized in first part of this review. The next part covers thermodynamic knowledge of residue curve maps, univolatility and unidistribution curves. A feasibility criterion based on thermodynamic properties of ternary diagram is presented, they are considered as powerful tool for the flow-sheet development and conceptual design. Separation of azeotropic mixtures and close boiling mixtures require non-conventional distillation processes, among which the leading processes are pressure-swing distillation if the composition of the azeotrope changes significantly with pressure, azeotropic distillation, extractive distillation, reactive distillation, and salt-effect distillation. The final section provides an overview of concepts, history, and recent strategies in these non-conventional distillations.