C-5 separation in a vapor phase simulated moving bed unit

The separation of n-pentane and iso-pentane is carried out in a six-port vapor phase SMB pilot plant, using n-heptane as desorbent and 5A-Zeolite as adsorbent solid. The results of a number of experimental runs illustrate the role and the effect of the different operating parameters and demonstrate the possibility of achieving high purity separation. They are discussed in the light of the known criteria for selecting robust and optimal operating conditions for SMB units