Abstract:
This invention relates to oxidative methods for controlling the oxidation of a class of compounds, including hydrocarbons, such as cyclohexane for example, alcohols, such as cyclohexanol for example, ketones, such as cyclohexanone for example, and peroxides, such as cyclohexylhydroperoxide for example, to intermediate oxidation products, such as adipic acid for example, by the removing the catalyst, such as cobalt compounds for example, from the oxidation mixture, outside the oxidation zone, after the oxidation has taken place at least partially. The catalyst is at least partially precipitated by following the steps of changing the temperature to be within a specific range, and sequentially reducing the water level to such a degree that causes the catalyst to precipitate. The precipitated catalyst is thereafter preferably filtered from the oxidation mixture and recycled to the oxidation zone.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/267,572, filed Mar. 12, 1999 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,143,927); which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/931,035, filed Sep. 16, 1997 (now abandoned), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/876,692, filed Jun. 16, 1997, which is a continuation-in-part of allowed U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/812,847, filed on Mar. 6, 1997, which in turn claims priority of Provisional Application No. 60/020,798, filed on Jun. 24, 1996; and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/824,992, filed Mar. 27, 1997 (now U.S. Pat. No. 5,922,908, issued Jul. 13, 1999); all of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to methods of oxidizing hydrocarbons, such as cyclohexane for example, to respective intermediate oxidation products, such as adipic acid for example, and more specifically, how to remove catalyst after the reaction, preferably for recycling. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     There is a plethora of references (both patents and literature articles) dealing with the formation of acids, one of the most important being adipic acid, by oxidation of hydrocarbons. Adipic acid is used to produce Nylon 66 fibers and resins, polyesters, polyurethanes, and miscellaneous other compounds. 
     There are different processes of manufacturing adipic acid. The conventional process involves a first step of oxidizing cyclohexane with oxygen to a mixture of cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol (KA mixture), and then oxidation of the KA mixture with nitric acid to adipic acid. Other processes include, among others, the “Hydroperoxide Process,” the “Boric Acid Process,” and the “Direct Synthesis Process,” which involves direct oxidation of cyclohexane to adipic acid with oxygen in the presence of solvents, catalysts, and promoters. 
     The Direct Synthesis Process has been given attention for a long time. However, to this date it has found little commercial success. One of the reasons is that although it looks very simple at first glance, it is extremely complex in reality. Due to this complexity, one can find strikingly conflicting results, comments, and views in different references. 
     It is well known that after a reaction has taken place according to the Direct Synthesis, a mixture of two liquid phases is present at ambient temperature, along with a solid phase mainly consisting of adipic acid. The two liquid phases have been called the “Polar Phase” and the “Non-Polar Phase”. However, no attention has been paid so far to the importance of the two phases, except for separating the adipic acid from the “Polar Phase” and recycling these phases to the reactor partially or totally with or without further treatment. 
     It is also important to note that most studies on the Direct Synthesis have been conducted in a batch mode, literally or for all practical purposes. 
     As aforementioned, there is a plethora of references dealing with oxidation of organic compounds to produce acids, such as, for example, adipic acid and/or intermediate products, such as for example cyclohexanone, cyclohexanol, cyclohexylhydroperoxide, etc. 
     The following references, among others, may be considered as representative of oxidation processes relative to the preparation of diacids and other intermediate oxidation products. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,463,119 (Kollar) discloses a process for the oxidative preparation of C5-C8 aliphatic dibasic acids by 
     (1) reacting, 
     (a) at least one saturated cycloaliphatic hydrocarbon having from 5 to 8 ring carbon atoms in the liquid phase and 
     (b) an excess of oxygen gas or an oxygen-containing gas in the presence of 
     (c) a solvent comprising an organic acid containing only primary and/or secondary hydrogen atoms and 
     (d) at least about 0.002 mole per 1000 grams of reaction mixture of a polyvalent heavy metal catalyst; 
     (2) removing the aliphatic dibasic acid; and 
     (3) recycling intermediates, post oxidation components, and derivatives thereof remaining after removal of the aliphatic dibasic acid into the oxidation reaction. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,374,767 (Drinkard et al.) discloses formation of cyclohexyladipates in a staged reactor, e.g., a reactive distillation column. A mixture containing a major amount of benzene and a minor amount of cyclohexene is fed to the lower portion of the reaction zone and adipic acid is fed to the upper portion of the reaction zone, cyclohexyladipates are formed and removed from the lower portion of the reaction zone and benzene is removed from the upper portion of the reaction zone. The reaction zone also contains an acid catalyst. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,321,157 (Kollar) discloses a process for the preparation of C5-C8 aliphatic dibasic acids through oxidation of corresponding saturated cycloaliphatic hydrocarbons by 
     (1) reacting, at a cycloaliphatic hydrocarbon conversion level of between about 7% and about 30%, 
     (a) at least one saturated cycloaliphatic hydrocarbon having from 5 to 8 ring carbon atoms in the liquid phase and 
     (b) an excess of oxygen gas or an oxygen containing gas mixture in the presence of 
     (c) less than 1.5 moles of a solvent per mole of cycloaliphatic hydrocarbon (a), wherein said solvent comprises an organic acid containing only primary and/or secondary hydrogen atoms and 
     (d) at least about 0.002 mole per 1000 grams of reaction mixture of a polyvalent heavy metal catalyst; and 
     (2) isolating the C5-C8 aliphatic dibasic acid. U.S. Pat. No. 3,987,100 (Barnette et al.) describes a process of oxidizing cyclohexane to produce cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol, said process comprising contacting a stream of liquid cyclohexane with oxygen in each of at least three successive oxidation stages by introducing into each stage a mixture of gases comprising molecular oxygen and an inert gas. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,957,876 (Rapoport et al.) describes a process for the preparation of cyclohexyl hydroperoxide substantially free of other peroxides by oxidation of cyclohexane containing a cyclohexane soluble cobalt salt in a zoned oxidation process in which an oxygen containing gas is fed to each zone in the oxidation section in an amount in excess of that which will react under the conditions of that zone. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,932,513 (Russell) discloses the oxidation of cyclohexane with molecular oxygen in a series of reaction zones, with vaporization of cyclohexane from the last reactor effluent and parallel distribution of this cyclohexane vapor among the series of reaction zones. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,530,185 (Pugi) discloses a process for manufacturing precursors of adipic acid by oxidation with an oxygen-containing inert gas which process is conducted in at least three successive oxidation stages by passing a stream of liquid cyclohexane maintained at a temperature in the range of 140° to 200° C. and a pressure in the range of 50 to 350 p.s.i.g. through each successive oxidation stage and by introducing a mixture of gases containing oxygen in each oxidation stage in an amount such that substantially all of the oxygen introduced into each stage is consumed in that stage thereafter causing the residual inert gases to pass counter-current into the stream of liquid during the passage of the stream through said stages. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,515,751 (Oberster et al.) discloses a process for the production of epsilon-hydroxycaproic acid in which cyclohexane is oxidized by liquid phase air oxidation in the presence of a catalytic amount of a lower aliphatic carboxylic acid and a catalytic amount of a peroxide under certain reaction conditions so that most of the oxidation products are found in a second, heavy liquid layer, and are directed to the production of epsilon-hydroxycaproic acid. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,361,806 (Lidov et al.) discloses a process for the production of adipic acid by the further oxidation of the products of oxidation of cyclohexane after separation of cyclohexane from the oxidation mixture, and more particularly to stage wise oxidation of the cyclohexane to give high yields of adipic acid precursors and also to provide a low enough concentration of oxygen in the vent gas so that the latter is not a combustible mixture. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,234,271 (Barker et al.) discloses a process for the production of adipic acid by the two-step oxidation of cyclohexane with oxygen. In a preferred embodiment, mixtures comprising cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol are oxidized. In another embodiment, the process involves the production of adipic acid from cyclohexane by oxidation thereof, separation of cyclohexane from the oxidation mixture and recycle thereof, and further oxidation of the other products of oxidation. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,231,608 (Kollar) discloses a process for the preparation of aliphatic dibasic acids from saturated cyclic hydrocarbons having from 4 to 8 cyclic carbon atoms per molecule in the presence of a solvent which comprises an aliphatic monobasic acid which contains only primary and secondary hydrogen atoms and a catalyst comprising a cobalt salt of an organic acid, and in which process the molar ratio of said solvent to said saturated cyclic hydrocarbon is between 1.5:1 and 7:1, and in which process the molar ratio of said catalyst to said saturated cyclic hydrocarbon is at least 5 millimoles per mole. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,161,603 (Leyshon et al.) discloses a process for recovering the copper-vanadium catalyst from the waste liquors obtained in the manufacture of adipic acid by the nitric acid oxidation of cyclohexanol and/or cyclohexanone. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 2,565,087 (Porter et al.) discloses the oxidation of cycloaliphatic hydrocarbons in the liquid phase with a gas containing molecular oxygen and in the presence of about 10% water to produce two phases and avoid formation of esters. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 2,557,282 (Hamblet et al.) discloses production of adipic acid and related aliphatic dibasic acids; more particularly to the production of adipic acid by the direct oxidation of cyclohexane. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 2,439,513 (Hamblet et al.) discloses the production of adipic acid and related aliphatic dibasic acids and more particularly to the production of adipic acid by the oxidation of cyclohexane. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 2,223,494 (Loder et al.) discloses the oxidation of cyclic saturated hydrocarbons and more particularly to the production of cyclic alcohols and cyclic ketones by oxidation of cyclic saturated hydrocarbons with an oxygen-containing gas. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 2,223,493 (Loder et al.) discloses the production of aliphatic dibasic acids and more particularly to the production of aliphatic dibasic acids by oxidation of cyclic saturated hydrocarbons with an oxygen-containing gas. 
     German Pat. No. DE 44 26 132 A1 (Kysela et al.) discloses a method of dehydration of process acetic acid from liquid-phase oxidation of cyclohexane with air, in the presence of cobalt salts as a catalyst after separation of the adipic acid after filtration, while simultaneously avoiding cobalt salt precipitates in the dehydration column, characterized in that the acetic acid phase to be returned to the beginning of the process is subjected to azeotropic distillation by the use of added cyclohexane, under distillative removal of the water down to a residual content of less than [sic] 0.3-0.7%. 
     PCT International Publication WO 96/03365 (Constantini et al.) discloses a process for recycling a cobalt-containing catalyst in a direct reaction of oxidation of cyclohexane into adipic acid, characterized by including a step in which the reaction mixture obtained by oxidation into adipic acid is treated by extraction of at least a portion of the glutaric acid and the succinic acid formed during the reaction. 
     The patent literature is inconsistent and at least confusing regarding addition or removal of water in oxidations. For example: 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,221,800 (Park et al.) discloses a process for the manufacture of adipic acid. In this process, cyclohexane is oxidized in an aliphatic monobasic acid solvent in the presence of a soluble cobalt salt wherein water is continuously or intermittently added to the reaction system after the initiation of oxidation of cyclohexane as indicated by a suitable means of detection, and wherein the reaction is conducted at a temperature of about 50° C. to about 150° C. at an oxygen partial pressure of about 50 to 420 pounds per square inch absolute. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,263,453 (Schultz et al.) discloses a process claiming improved yields by the addition of water at the beginning of the reaction, generally of the order of 0.5 to 15% relative to monobasic aliphatic acid solvent, and preferably 1 to 10% relative to the solvent. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,390,174 (Schultz et al.) discloses a process claiming improved yields of aliphatic dibasic acids when oxidizing the respective cyclic hydrocarbons at temperatures between 130° and 160° C., while removing the water of reaction substantially as quickly as it is formed. 
     None of the above references, or any other references known to the inventors disclose, suggest or imply, singly or in combination, control of oxidation reactions by adjusting the water level subject to the intricate and critical controls and requirements of the instant invention as described and claimed. 
     Our U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,580,531, 5,558,842, 5,502,245, and our co-pending applications Ser. No. 08/477,195 (filed Jun. 7, 1995), Ser. No. 08/587,967 (filed Jan. 17, 1996), and Ser. No. 08/620,974 (filed Mar. 25, 1996), all of which are incorporated herein by reference, describe methods and apparatuses relative to controlling reactions in atomized liquids. Our application Ser. No. 08/812,847, filed on Mar. 6, 1997, and our application Ser. No. 08/824,992, filed on Mar. 27, 1997 are both also incorporated herein by reference. 
     All of the following patent applications, which were filed simultaneously on May 21, 1997, are also incorporated herein by reference: 
     Now U.S. Pat. No. 5,801,273 of Eustathios Vassiliou, Mark W. Dassel, David C. DeCoster, Ader M. Rostami, and Sharon M. Aldrich, titled “Methods and Devices for Controlling the Reaction Rate of a Hydrocarbon to an Intermediate Oxidation Product by Pressure Drop Adjustments;” 
     U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/861,281 of Mark W. Dassel, Eustathios Vassiliou, David C. DeCoster, Ader M. Rostami, and Sharon M. Aldrich, titled “Methods for Controlling the Reaction Rate of a Hydrocarbon to an Intermediate Oxidation Product by Monitoring Flow of Incoming and Outcoming Gases;” 
     U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/861,180 of David C. DeCoster, Ader M. Rostami, Mark W. Dassel, and Eustathios Vassiliou, titled “Methods for Controlling the Oxidation Rate of a Hydrocarbon by Adjusting the Ratio of the Hydrocarbon to a Rate-Modulator;” 
     Now U.S. Pat. No. 5,824,819 of Mark W. Dassel, Eustathios Vassiliou, David C. DeCoster, and Ader M. Rostami, titled “Methods of Preparing an Intermediate Oxidation Product from a Hydrocarbon by Utilizing an Activated Initiator”; 
     Now U.S. Pat. No. 5,817,868 of Ader M. Rostami, Mark W. Dassel, Eustathios Vassiliou, David C. DeCoster, titled “Methods and Devices for Controlling the Oxidation of a Hydrocarbon to an Acid by Regulating Temperature/Conversion Relationship in Multi-Stage Arrangements;”and 
     U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/861,210 (now abandoned) of Eustathios Vassiliou, Ader M. Rostami, David C. DeCoster, and Mark W. Dassel, titled “Pseudo-Plug-Flow Reactor.” 
     Further, our patent application Ser. No. 08/876,692, filed on Jun. 16, 1997, of Ader M. Rostami, David C. DeCoster, Eustathios Vassiliou, Mark W. Dassel, and Sharon M. Aldrich, titled “Devices for Detecting Formation of a Second Liquid Phase”is also incorporated herein by reference. 
     Our PCT patent application No. PCT/US97/10830, Publication No. WO 97/49485, filed on Jun. 23, 1996 of Mark W. Dassel, David C. DeCoster, Ader M. Rostami, Eustathios Vassiliou, and Sharon M. Aldrich, titled “Methods and Devices for Oxidizing a Hydrocarbon to Form an Acid” is incorporated herein by reference. 
     Also, our PCT patent application No. PCT/US97/12944, Publication No. WO 98/07677, filed on Jun. 23, 1996, of David C. DeCoster, Eustathios Vassiliou, Mark W. Dassel, Sharon M. Aldrich, and Ader M. Rostami, titled “Methods and Devices for Controlling the Reaction Rate and/or Reactivity of Hydrocarbon to an Intermediate Oxidation Product by Adjusting the Oxidant Consumption Rate” is incorporated herein by reference. 
     In addition, our patent application now U.S. Pat. No. 6,037,491, filed on Jun. 25, 1997, of Eustathios Vassiliou, Mark W. Dassel, Sharon M. Aldrich, Ader M. Rostami, and David C. DeCoster, titled “Methods and Devices for Controlling Hydrocarbon Oxidations to Respective Acids by Adjusting the Solvent to Hydrocarbon Ratio” is also incorporated herein by reference. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     As aforementioned, this invention relates to methods of oxidizing hydrocarbons, such as cyclohexane for example, to respective intermediate oxidation products, such as adipic acid for example, and more specifically, how to remove catalyst after the reaction, preferably for recycling. More particularly, this invention pertains to a method of removing catalyst from a mixture comprising the catalyst and water, the mixture having been formed after reaction of a hydrocarbon with an oxidant to form an intermediate oxidation product at an operation temperature, in the presence of the catalyst, and water at a first water level, the method being characterized by the steps of: 
     (a) changing the operation temperature to a temperature at or above a precipitation temperature, at which and over which precipitation temperature, the catalyst in the mixture would precipitate, at least partially, if the water level in the mixture had been reduced to or under a precipitation water level; 
     (b) removing an adequate amount of water from the mixture, in order to bring the water level to or under the precipitation water level, thereby causing the catalyst to precipitate, at least partially; and 
     (c) removing the precipitated catalyst from the rest of the mixture. 
     This invention is also related to a method of removing catalyst from a mixture comprising the catalyst and water, the mixture having been formed after reaction of a hydrocarbon with an oxidant to form an intermediate oxidation product at an operation temperature, in the presence of the catalyst, and water at a water level, the method being characterized by the steps of: 
     (d) changing the operation temperature to a temperature below a precipitation temperature, at which and over which precipitation temperature, the catalyst in the mixture would precipitate, at least partially, if the water level in the mixture had been reduced to or under a precipitation water level; 
     (e) removing an adequate amount of water from the mixture, in order to bring the water level to or under the precipitation water level, without causing the catalyst to precipitate; 
     (f) changing the temperature of step (d) to a temperature at or above the precipitation temperature, thereby causing the catalyst to precipitate at least partially; and 
     (g) removing the precipitated catalyst from the rest of the mixture. 
     In the methods just described, and in other methods of the invention disclosed herein, unless otherwise stated, the order in which the steps are performed need not be the same order in which the steps are delineated. In other words, the methods of the present invention encompass methods wherein steps are performed in a sequence other than the listed sequence. Furthermore, the steps of the inventive method need not be performed sequentially. In other words, additional steps may be performed intermediate any two listed steps, and the resulting method is still encompassed by the claimed invention. 
     It is preferable that substantially all the water, which influences the catalyst precipitation process, is removed. Water bound in a manner that does not promote or hinder catalyst precipitation at a desired temperature is evidently immaterial as far as the catalyst precipitation process at the desired temperature is concerned. 
     The methods may further comprise a step of removing at least partially the intermediate oxidation product, preferably by centrifuging, filtering, or a combination thereof, either before or after at least partial removal of the catalyst. 
     The methods may comprise a step of forming a precipitate containing both precipitated intermediate oxidation product and catalyst, and a step of dissolving the precipitated catalyst in water. 
     According to the methods of the present invention, the water may also be removed in at least two stages, a first stage at which most of a desired amount of water is removed, and a second stage at which the rest of the desired amount of water is removed. This is particularly beneficial when the water level is reduced in a distillation column to just above the level at or under which catalyst precipitates, and the rest of the desired water is removed in a precipitation chamber. For example, the water in the second stage may be removed by stripping or forming an azeotrope with the hydrocarbon, or it may be removed by addition of an acid anhydride, which is preferably acetic acid anhydride, or it may be removed by distillation with simultaneous concentration of the mixture containing the catalyst and the water. Of course, the water in any stage may be removed by addition of an acid anhydride, which is preferably acetic acid anhydride. 
     Deposition of catalyst on solid surfaces may be reduced, and/or catalyst precipitation may be assisted by use of seeds added to the mixture. The seeds may comprise precipitated catalyst, from a step of the process. 
     The catalyst precipitation may also be conducted in at least two stages. For example, the catalyst may be precipitated partially in a distillation column, and partially in a precipitation/de-watering chamber. 
     The methods of this invention are particularly applicable in the case that: 
     the hydrocarbon comprises a compound selected from a group consisting of cyclohexane, cyclohexanone, cyclohexanol, cyclohexylhydroperoxide, o-xylene, m-xylene, p-xylene, a mixture of at least two of cyclohexane, cyclohexanone, cyclohexanol, cyclohexylhydroperoxide, and a mixture of at least two of o-xylene, m-xylene, p-xylene; 
     the oxidant comprises oxygen; and 
     a major portion of the intermediate oxidation product comprises a compound selected from a group consisting of adipic acid, cyclohexanol, cyclohexanone, cyclohexylhydroperoxide, phthalic acid, isophthalic acid, terephthalic acid, a mixture of at least two of adipic acid, cyclohexanone, cyclohexanol, and cyclohexylhydroperoxide, and a mixture of at least two of phthalic acid, isophthalic acid, and terephthalic acid. 
     The catalyst may comprise a metal compound, which is preferably selected from a group consisting of Cu, Ag, Au, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Zn, Cd, Hg, Al, Sc, Y, Ga, In, Tl, Ti, Zr, Hf, Ge, Sn, Pb, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, W, Mn, Tc, Re, Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Ni, Pd, Pt, and a combination thereof. 
     This invention is even more particularly applicable, in the case that the intermediate oxidation product comprises adipic acid, the hydrocarbon comprises cyclohexane, the catalyst comprises a cobalt compound, the gaseous oxidant comprises oxygen, and the mixture comprises acetic acid. 
     Further, the instant invention pertains to a method, wherein the intermediate oxidation product comprises a compound selected from a group consisting of adipic acid, phthalic acid, isophthalic acid, and terephthalic acid, and the method further comprises a step of reacting said intermediate oxidation product with a third reactant selected from a group consisting of a polyol, a polyamine, and a polyamide in a manner to form a polymer of a polyester, or a polyamide, or a (polyimide and/or polyamideimide), respectively. The method may further comprise a step of spinning the polymer into fibers. 
     The present invention also pertains to a reactor device for conducting an oxidation of a hydrocarbon to an intermediate oxidation product in the presence of a catalyst in a reaction mixture, and for separating at least part of the catalyst from the reaction mixture, the reactor device characterized by: 
     a reaction chamber for conducting the oxidation; and 
     a catalyst removal assembly connected to the reaction chamber, the catalyst removal assembly comprising at least one of de-watering means for removing water from the reaction mixture, and thermal treatment means for thermally treating the reaction mixture, in a manner that catalyst precipitates. 
     The de-watering means preferably comprise a de-watering chamber, and a distillation column connected to the de-watering chamber. Preferably, a condenser is connected to the distillation column and a decanter is connected to the condenser. 
     The thermal treatment means may comprise one or more heat exchangers, and/or a thermal precipitation chamber. 
     The thermal precipitation chamber and the de-watering chamber may constitute a single chamber. 
     The reactor device of the instant invention may further comprise intermediate oxidation product removal means connected to the catalyst removal means, for removing intermediate oxidation product from the reaction mixture. 
     The intermediate oxidation product removal means may be disposed after the catalyst removal assembly and away from the reaction chamber, or they may be disposed between the catalyst removal assembly and the reaction chamber. 
     The reactor device may further comprise a water-wash station for removing catalyst from the intermediate oxidation product. 
     The de-watering means may comprise: 
     a distillation column having a stripper zone and a rectifier zone; 
     a re-boiler connected to the stripper zone; and 
     a de-watering chamber connected to the distillation column. 
     The reactor device may further comprise means for causing precipitation of catalyst in the de-watering chamber, and/or means for causing precipitation of catalyst in the distillation column, and/or means for causing precipitation of catalyst partially in the distillation column and partially in the de-watering chamber. 
     The reactor device may further comprise a first solids separator for separating precipitated catalyst, and for producing a liquid free of precipitated catalyst. Part of the liquid, which is free of precipitated catalyst, may be re-cycled to the stripper zone of the distillation column, through the re-boiler. 
     Also, the reactor device may further comprise means for introducing seeds in one or both of the distillation column and the de-watering chamber. The seeds may comprise catalyst crystals originating from the precipitated catalyst. 
     Cooling at one or more stages may be performed by condensation or other cooling means, such as cooling coils for example, or both. 
     By the term “steady state” it is meant that the reaction has reached an equilibrium, which equilibrium, however, may be adjusted periodically or continuously in order to achieve a desired result. If for example more water is needed in the reaction zone to avoid catalyst precipitation, the water feed rate to the reaction zone may be increased appropriately, and still the reaction may be considered to be at a “steady state”. Similarly, if less water is needed to avoid formation of two phases, the water feed rate to the reaction zone may be decreased appropriately, and still the reaction may be considered to be at a “steady state.” 
     The terms “substantially single-phase liquid” and “substantially single liquid phase” are for all practical purposes synonymous for the purposes of this invention. They both intend to indicate that there is no second liquid phase present, while a solid phase may or may not be present. The terms “second phase formation” or “formation of a second phase” refer to a second liquid phase, and not to a solid phase, unless otherwise specified. 
     The term “level” of an ingredient (reactant, reaction product, intermediate oxidation product, inert matter, or any other type of matter present) includes both “relative level” and “percentage level”. According to the instant invention, both methods and devices may perform by using either one or the other type of “levels”. In some occasions it may be easier to use one type rather than the other. “Relative level” of an ingredient denotes the amount of the ingredient present in weight units or in volume units, in a reaction zone or in a cell for example, as compared to 100 units, in weight units or in volume units, respectively, of the rest of the ingredients present, or the rest of the ingredients under consideration. The rest of the ingredients present or the rest of the ingredients under consideration, in this case, have a constant ratio with respect to each other. On the other hand, “percentage level” is the level expressed as a percentage based on total amount of all or of a desired number of specific ingredients. The percentages may be expressed also either by weight or by volume. 
     Removal of water from a mixture includes binding the water in a manner that it is not free to act as water for the purposes of this invention. For example, reaction of an anhydride, such as acetic anhydride for example, with water contained in a mixture, is considered as water removal from the mixture, despite the fact the oxygen and hydrogen atoms, which constituted the reacted water molecule, are still present in the mixture. 
     All ratios and percentages are expressed by weight unless otherwise specified. 
     A controller, preferably a computerized controller, may handle with ease and accuracy either type of “level.” Programming a computerized controller to perform such functions is a routine process, well known to the art. According to this invention, a controller, based on information received, from a reaction zone for example, controls feed rates, temperatures, pressures, and other parameters in order to achieve the desirable results. The controller may also be programmed, by techniques well known to the art, to include flow sheet simulation, which may account for vapor/liquid equilibrium and energy balance effects. 
     As aforementioned, these methods and devices are particularly suited in case that the hydrocarbon comprises cyclohexane, the mixture comprises acetic acid, and the catalyst comprises a cobalt salt. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING 
     The reader&#39;s understanding of this invention will be enhanced by reference to the following detailed description taken in combination with the drawing figure, wherein: 
     FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the thermal precipitation chamber and the de-watering chamber constitute a single chamber. 
     FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the thermal precipitation chamber is disposed after the de-watering chamber. 
     FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the intermediate oxidation product removal means are disposed between the reaction chamber and thermal precipitation chamber/de-watering chamber combination. 
     FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the water wash station is also utilized to remove catalyst from the intermediate oxidation product. 
     FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram of a preferred distillation column, which may be used in conjunction with the reaction chamber or the de-watering chamber or any other appropriate chamber, or a combination thereof. This column is provided with a re-boiler, and is divided to a lower stripper zone and to an upper rectifier zone. 
     FIG. 6 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred columns illustrated in FIG.  5 . Catalyst precipitation takes place in a de-watering/precipitation chamber after removing most of the water in the column, and an additional adequate amount in the chamber to cause precipitation. The additional amount of water is removed by stripping or forming an azeotrope with hydrocarbon. 
     FIG. 7 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred columns illustrated in FIG.  5 . Catalyst precipitation takes place in a de-watering/precipitation chamber after removing an adequate amount of the water in the column, so that an appropriate amount of hydrocarbon added to the de-watering/precipitation chamber causes catalyst precipitation. 
     FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred columns illustrated in FIG.  5 . Catalyst precipitation takes place in a de-watering/precipitation chamber after removing most of the water in the column, and adding an appropriate amount of anhydride, such as acetic acid anhydride for example, to the de-watering/precipitation chamber which removes an additional amount of water by hydrolysis, and causes catalyst precipitation. 
     FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred columns illustrated in FIG.  5 . Catalyst precipitation takes place in a de-watering/precipitation chamber after removing an adequate amount of the water in the column at reduced temperature and pressure, so that temperature rise in the de-watering/precipitation chamber causes catalyst precipitation. 
     FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred columns illustrated in FIG.  5 . Catalyst precipitation takes place in a de-watering/precipitation chamber after removing most of the water in the column, and concentrating the mixture in the de-watering/precipitation chamber, along with removing at least part of the residual water. 
     FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred columns illustrated in FIG.  5 . Catalyst precipitation takes place in the column and in the re-boiler. Recycling of a small amount of separated catalyst crystals provides seeds/sites for crystal growth and prevention or reduction of catalyst deposition on solid surfaces. 
     FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred columns illustrated in FIG.  5 . Catalyst precipitation takes place partially in the column and in the re-boiler, and partially in the de-watering/precipitation chamber. Recycling of a small amount of separated catalyst crystals provides seeds/sites for crystal growth and prevention or reduction of catalyst deposition on solid surfaces. 
     FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred columns illustrated in FIG.  5 . Catalyst precipitation takes place partially in the column, and partially in the dewatering/precipitation chamber. The re-boiler is provided with solution after removal of the precipitated catalyst. 
     FIG. 14 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred columns illustrated in FIG.  5 . Catalyst precipitation takes place in the column. The re-boiler is provided with solution after removal of the precipitated catalyst. 
     FIG. 15 illustrates a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes the preferred column illustrated in FIG. 5, in which, however, the upper rectification portion has been substantially eliminated. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     As aforementioned, this invention relates to methods and devices for oxidizing hydrocarbons, such as cyclohexane for example, to respective intermediate oxidation products, such as adipic acid for example, and more specifically, how to remove catalyst after the reaction, preferably for recycling. 
     Proper catalyst handling in oxidation reactions has always been a considerable problem in the art. According to the present invention, catalyst is precipitated at least partially from the reaction mixture after an oxidation has taken place by de-watering and/or thermal treatment. This presents enormous advantages, because the precipitated catalyst may be easily and efficiently recycled for repeated utilization. De-watering is preferably conducted by use of distillation columns and/or addition of anhydrides, preferably acetic acid anhydride. However, other methods, such as for example use of other de-watering compounds, are not excluded and may be used very effectively, especially in combination with distillation columns. Examples of other de-watering compounds are colloidal silica, calcium oxide, molecular sieves, etc. 
     It was found by the inventors that very important factors regarding catalyst precipitation are water level, catalyst level, hydrocarbon level, and temperature, among others, which include reaction products and by-products. For a given set of factors, catalyst precipitation is facilitated as the water level decreases, the catalyst level increases, the hydrocarbon level increases, and as temperature increases. 
     For better clarification of this invention, the examples given below assume that the hydrocarbon is cyclohexane, the intermediate oxidation product comprises adipic acid, the mixture contains a solvent comprising acetic acid, and the catalyst comprises a cobalt compound. It should be understood, however, that the teachings of this invention are applicable to different hydrocarbons, intermediate oxidation products, solvents, and catalysts than the ones used in the examples. Only minor modifications may be needed to fit each individual case. 
     Referring now to FIG. 1, there is depicted a reactor system or device  10 , comprising a reaction chamber  12  containing a reaction zone  14 . The reactor system or device  10  is only partially shown for demonstrating the components necessary to exemplify the present invention. Miscellaneous treatment, product or by-product separation, recycling, etc. devices, well known to the art, are not shown for purposes of clarity and brevity. 
     Feeding means (for raw materials, miscellaneous recycled matter, gaseous oxidant, etc.) connected to the reaction chamber  12  are represented by a single feeding line  16  for purposes of clarity and brevity. However, it should be understood that, in practice, a number of individual lines may be used, including if appropriate, devices such as for example mixing vessels, heaters, coolers, etc. 
     Preferably a first distillation column  18  may also be utilized. The first distillation column  18  is connected at one end to the reaction chamber  12  through lines  16 i and  16 ii, while at the other end is connected to a first condenser  20  through line  18 i. The first condenser  20  is in turn connected to a first decanter  22  through line  20 i. The first decanter  22  has a first vent line  22 i, a first cyclohexane (or other hydrocarbon) removal line  22 ii, and a first water removal line  22 iii. Lines  22 i and  22 ii are connected to valves  22 ′ and  22 ″, respectively. Line  22 ii is also connected to line  18 ii for recycling cyclohexane to the first distillation column  18 . 
     The reaction chamber  12  is also connected to optional heater  24  through line  16 iii. The optional heater  24  is in turn connected to the de-watering chamber  26 . 
     A second distillation column  28  is connected at one end to the de-watering chamber  26  through lines  261  and  26 ii, while at the other end is connected to a second condenser  30  through line  28 i. The second condenser  30  is in turn connected to a second decanter  32  through line  30 i. The second decanter  32  has a second vent line  32 i, a second cyclohexane (or other hydrocarbon) removal line  32 ii, and a second water removal line  32 iii. Lines  32 i and  32 ii are connected to valves  32 ′ (vent valve) and  32 ″ (hydrocarbon sampling or removal valve), respectively. Line  32 ii is also connected to line  28 ii for recycling cyclohexane to the second distillation column  28 . 
     The de-watering chamber  26  is also connected to a first solids separator  34  through line  26 iii. The first solids separator  34  may be a filter, a centrifugal separator, or any other type of separator capable of separating solid from liquid matter. A line  34 ii is connected to the first solids separator  34  for removing solid matter from said first solids separator. The first solids separator is also connected through line  34 i to an optional cooler  36 , which in turn is connected to a crystallizer  38  through line  36 i. The crystallizer  38  is preferably a flash crystallizer, and it uses a pressure reduction line  38 i. The pressure reduction (which may go from the operation pressure to any lower pressure, including sub-atmospheric, but preferably atmospheric) in the crystallizer  38 , has as a result a substantially instantaneous drop in temperature, which in turn causes solids (such as adipic acid for example) to crystallize and precipitate. The crystallizer  38  is connected to a second solids separator  40  through line  38 ii. The crystallized solids are separated and removed from the crystallizer through line  40 ii, while the remaining liquids are removed from line  40 i, for further treatment and/or recycling. 
     In operation of this embodiment, miscellaneous raw materials and recyclables, including in this example cyclohexane, acetic acid, cobalt compound catalyst, optional initiator (preferably cyclohexanone or acetaldehyde, or a mixture thereof), preferably water, and a gaseous oxidant, preferably comprising oxygen, enter the reaction zone  14 , inside the reaction chamber  12 , through the feeding means represented by line  16 . 
     The oxidation is preferably brought to a steady state, and preferably the majority or all the heat of reaction is removed by evaporated condensible matter, which exits the reaction chamber  12  as vapors through line  16 i, and at least partially returns to the reaction chamber  12  as condensate through line  16 ii. In this example, the majority of vapors exiting the reaction chamber  12  are cyclohexane, acetic acid, and water. The column  18  is designed, by well known to the art techniques, in a manner that, for all practical purposes, substantially all the acetic acid in the vapors exiting through line  16 i is condensed in the first column  18  and returns to the reaction chamber  12  through line  16 ii. For all practical purposes, the majority of the cyclohexane and substantially all the water in the vapors exiting the reaction chamber  12 , pass through the first column  18 , are condensed in the condenser  20 , and are separated in the decanter  22 . The column enables the withdrawal of substantially pure water through line  22 iii. The condensed cyclohexane is at least partially returned to the top of the column  18  through line  18 ii. As it moves downward, it causes condensation of the acetic acid, and they both return to the reaction chamber  12  through line  16 ii. An adequate amount of water is preferably recycled, or fresh water added, to the reaction chamber  12 , so that the catalyst remains in solution under the operation conditions. At the same time the amount of water recycled or added, should preferably be low enough, so that substantially a single liquid phase is present in the reaction zone  14  of the reaction chamber  12 . Formation or existence of a second liquid phase in the reaction zone  14  reduces considerably the reaction rate and reactivity. 
     Off-gases are removed from line  22 i through valve  22 ′. The majority of off-gases comprises mainly non-condensible gases, usually nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, etc. for example, with minor amounts of condensible matter, comprising for example such vapors as cyclohexane, acetic acid, water, etc. Recycling of gases (not shown) from line  22 i to the reaction chamber  12  is many times desirable in order to improve sparging and mixing, to conserve oxygen, to reduce treatment requirements of the final off-gases, etc. 
     The valve  22 ″ may be used in order to remove a sample, or part of the cyclohexane, if so desired. 
     The reaction mixture, having reached a steady state at a predetermined operation temperature, pressure, and desired conversion in the reaction zone  14  of the reaction chamber  12 , is preferably continuously being removed from line  16 iii as a reaction mixture stream. This stream is directed to a catalyst precipitation assembly, which comprises the elements between the reaction chamber  12  and the optional cooler  36 , shown in FIG.  1 . The catalyst precipitation assembly comprises at least one of thermal treatment means, such as the optional heater  24  for example, and de-watering means, such as the assembly of elements between the optional heater  24  and the first solids separator  34  for example, as shown in FIG.  1 . It is highly preferable that both the thermal treatment means and the de-watering means are present and utilized for the catalyst precipitation, as illustrated in FIG.  1 . 
     If the water level is rather low in the reaction zone  14 , the cyclohexane level is rather high, and the catalyst level is rather high, just raising the temperature of the stream from its initial operation temperature to a higher temperature, may cause precipitation of catalyst. In such a case, precipitation may also be caused, even without raising the temperature, by simply removing water in the de-watering chamber  26 . However, the utilization of the combination of both, the thermal treatment means and the de-watering means, is highly preferable. 
     Thus, in the case of adipic acid production for example, if the operation temperature in the reaction zone  14  is 100° C. for example, the temperature of the reaction stream may be raised by the optional heater  24 , to a temperature preferably in the range of 110 to 150° C. The temperature to which the stream is raised is preferably kept lower tha a temperature at which catalyst precipitates at the water level of the stream. The higher temperature stream is then directed to the de-watering chamber  26 . The temperature in the de-watering chamber  26 , which may be different than that of stream  24 i, is kept in the desired range by provision of heat to it. For example, heat may be provided to the de-watering chamber  26  by heating coils (not shown), inside or outside the de-watering chamber  26 , or by re-circulating at least part of the contents of the chamber  26  through heater  24  back to the de-watering chamber  26 , or through an additional heater (not shown), or by passing part of the filtrate from line  34 i through a heater (not shown) or vaporizer (not shown) and directing it back to the de-watering chamber  26 , or by any other technique well known to the art. 
     Adding heat to the contents of the de-watering chamber  26  is very important in order to continue evaporating cyclohexane, which azeotropically or otherwise removes water from the contents of the de-watering chamber  26 , as the azeotrope or other vapor mixture passes through the second distillation column  28  in the same manner as already described for the first distillation column  18 . The combination of cyclohexane/water is condensed in the condenser  30 , and the cyclohexane is separated from the water in the decanter  32 . Cyclohexane is directed back to the to the top of the distillation column  28 , and finally returns to the de-watering chamber  26 . 
     The level of water in the de-watering chamber  26  is maintained at a low equilibrium value at which catalyst precipitates at the temperature prevailing in the de-watering chamber  26 . Preferably, substantially all the water, which influences the catalyst precipitation process, is removed. 
     In order to facilitate further catalyst precipitation in any precipitation chamber, hydrocarbon, such as cyclohexane for example, may also be added to the chamber. 
     More than one de-watering chambers with respective distillation columns, and respective or common condensers and decanters may be used, preferably in series, for higher removal of water. 
     It is important to note that the ratio of vapor flow through line  26 i to the matter flow entering the chamber  26  through line  24 i, and exiting through line  26 iii, is of extreme importance, and it should be kept as high as technically and economically possible, for a higher degree of de-watering. In order to achieve the same de-watering degree at a lower ratio, an anhydride, such as acetic acid anhydride may be added, preferably continuously, in the chamber  26 . Preferably, most of the de-watering is performed by the column, and the rest is performed by the anhydride. 
     A slurry containing the precipitated catalyst is directed, preferably in a continuous stream, through line  26 iii to the first solids separator  34 , where the precipitated catalyst is separated and removed through line  34 ii. The filtrate is cooled down either by the optional cooler  36 , or more preferably by flash crystallization in the crystallizer  38 . Flash crystallization is conducted by pressure reduction through line  38 i. During the pressure reduction, a large amount of cyclohexane with some acetic acid is evaporated from the mixture, causing a drastic temperature drop, so that the intermediate oxidation product, adipic acid in this example, precipitates and forms a slurry, which slurry is transferred, preferably continuously, to the second solids separator  40 . The flashing process may be conducted in one or in multiple stages. The adipic acid is removed through line  40 ii, while the filtrate is removed through line  40 i for further treatment and/or recycling. The cyclohexane which is removed from line  38 i is condensed, and preferably recycled to the reaction chamber  12  through feeding line  16 , with or without pretreatment. The optional cooler  36  may be used by itself for cooling the mixture or it may be used in conjunction with the flash crystallization process. The optional cooler  36  may also be part of the crystallizer  38  for further cooling the contents of the crystallizer. 
     Due to substantial absence of water in the mixture entering the crystallizer  38 , a second liquid phase is not usually formed. However, in case of a second liquid phase formation, a decanter (not shown) may be used, if so desired, to separate the polar from the non-polar phase, and then the adipic acid may be separated from the polar phase. Intentional addition of water after the first solids separator  34  in order to form a second liquid phase may be made, if so desired, followed by separation of the adipic acid from the polar phase. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, better illustrated in FIG. 2, there is provided a thermal precipitation chamber  44 , which is heated by a heater  46 . The thermal precipitation chamber  44  is disposed between the de-watering chamber  26  and the first solids separator  34 . In addition, an optional cooler  42  replaces the optional heater  24  of the embodiment shown in FIG.  1 . The rest of the elements involved in the embodiment of FIG. 2 are substantially the same as the ones illustrated in FIG.  1 . 
     The operation of this embodiment is very similar to the operation of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, with the following exceptions. 
     The stream of the reaction mixture leaving the reaction zone  14  of the reaction chamber  12  passes through line  16 iii and it is introduced to the de-watering chamber  26 . The temperature in the de-watering chamber  26  is controlled to be lower than the temperature at or over which catalyst precipitates at the water levels prevailing in chamber  26 . The temperature may be lowered by evaporation of hydrocarbon and water and/or pressure reduction in chamber  26 . In sequence, the de-watered mixture is transferred, preferably continuously, from the de-watering chamber  26  to the thermal precipitation chamber  44 , where it is heated to or above the catalyst precipitation temperature, by means of the heater  46 , and forms a precipitated catalyst slurry. Hydrocarbon, such as cyclohexane for example, may also be added to the chamber  44  for facilitating catalyst precipitation. The slurry is transferred, preferably continuously to the first solids separator  34 , where, the precipitated catalyst is separated and leaves the separator  34  through line  34 ii. The rest of the operation is similar to the operation of the embodiment illustrated in FIG.  1 . 
     In still another embodiment of the present invention, better illustrated in FIG. 3, the optional cooler  36 , the crystallizer  38 , and the second solids separator  40  are positioned before the de-watering chamber  26 . A heater  48  is also provided for raising the temperature of the stream passing through line  40 i, before it enters the de-watering chamber  26  via line  48 i. As in the previous cases, means (not shown) for heating the contents of the de-watering chamber  26  are necessary for the de-watering operation. Decanter(s) (not shown) may also be necessary in case of a second liquid phase formation. However, it is preferable that the operation of the embodiments of the present invention are conducted in a single liquid phase mode, if at all feasible. 
     The operation of this embodiment also is very similar to the operation of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, with the following exceptions. 
     The stream of the reaction mixture leaving the reaction zone  14  of the reaction chamber  12  through line  16 iii, passes through the optional cooler  36 . The purpose of the cooler  36  is to reduce the temperature of the stream to a low enough temperature so that the adipic acid will precipitate in the crystallizer  38 . It is preferable that the cooling of the mixture in the crystallizer is performed by flash crystallization as the pressure is reduced through line  38 i, as already discussed, in which case, the cooler  36  may not be needed, or may be used to provide some additional cooling. The crystallized adipic acid is removed in the second solids separator  40  through line  40 ii, while the filtrate is heated to a temperature lower than a temperature at or over which catalyst precipitates at the water level prevailing in line  40 i, but preferably higher than that at which or over which catalyst precipitates under the minimal levels of water in the de-watering chamber  26 . The de-watering chamber  26  is also heated by heating means (not shown) for maintaining the temperature needed for catalyst precipitation. The slurry produced by catalyst precipitation is directed, as in the previous cases, to the first solids separator  34 , where the precipitated catalyst is removed through line  34 ii, while the filtrate is removed through line  34 i for further treatment and/or recycling. 
     In still another embodiment of the present invention, better illustrated in FIG. 4, the adipic acid is precipitated in a slurry containing precipitated catalyst, and the catalyst is removed by washing the combined precipitate with water. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, except that the first solids separator  34  (see FIG. 1) is not present, and a solids water wash station  50  has been added and connected to the second solids separator  40  through line  40 ii. A water incoming line  50 i, a washed solids line  50 ii, and a washings line  50 iii are also connected to the water wash station  50 . 
     The operation of this embodiment is substantially identical to the operation of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, up to the point that the slurry of catalyst exits the de-watering chamber  26 . At that point, the slurry, instead of being directed to a first solids separator, is directed to the optional cooler  36  and crystallizer  38 . The intermediate oxidation product, adipic acid in this example, precipitates also within the catalyst slurry. The mixed precipitates of catalyst and adipic acid are separated from the filtrate in the second solids separator  40 . The mixed solids are transferred, preferably continuously, to the water wash station  50 , where they are washed with cold water entering through line  50 i. The precipitated catalyst dissolves in the water, and the solution leaves the system through the washings line  50 iii, while the adipic acid, being substantially insoluble in cold water, is removed through line  50 ii. More than one water washing stations may be present. The solids may be carried on a belt (not shown) and progressively washed, so that substantially all the catalyst is dissolved and removed. 
     In still another embodiment, using the water wash station as described above, the crystallizer  38  and second separator  40  may be located before the de-watering chamber  26  in a manner similar to that described in the embodiment illustrated in FIG.  3 . 
     In the practice of this invention, it is highly preferable to use one or more distillation columns of the type shown in FIG. 5, which may replace column  18  and/or  28 , shown in FIGS. 1 to  4 . The distillation columns of this type are well known to the art. They have a stripper zone S and a rectifier zone R, above the stripper zone, as well as a re-boiler section  52 , as shown in FIG.  5 . They are characterized by better separation of the constituents entering the column, although they use more energy due to the additional re-boiler. Depending on particular case, the relative size of the two zones may vary considerably. 
     In another embodiment, better illustrated in FIG. 6, re-boilers  52  and  62  are added to the columns  18  and  28 , respectively. In addition, line  16 iii is directly connected to the column  28 . The column  28  is connected to the precipitation chamber  26 . Line  34 iv is used for recycling hydrocarbon, such as cyclohexane for example, to the precipitation chamber  26  from the second decanter  32 . 
     In operation of this embodiment, miscellaneous raw materials and recyclables, including in this example cyclohexane, acetic acid, cobalt compound catalyst, optional initiator (preferably cyclohexanone or acetaldehyde, or a mixture thereof), preferably water, and a gaseous oxidant, preferably comprising oxygen, enter the reaction zone  14 , inside the reaction chamber  12 , through the feeding means represented by line  16 , in a similar manner as in the case of the embodiment illustrated in FIG.  1 . Also similarly, the oxidation is preferably brought to a steady state. The majority of vapors exiting the reaction chamber  12  are cyclohexane, acetic acid, and water. The column  18 , comprising in this case a stripper zone S and a rectifier zone R (see FIG. 5) is designed, by techniques well known to the art, in a manner that, for all practical purposes, substantially all the acetic acid in the vapors exiting through line  16 i is condensed in the first column  18  and returns to the reaction chamber  12  through line  16 ii, which in turn is followed by lines  16 iv and  16 v. Line  16 v leads part of the condensed acetic acid back to the reaction chamber  12 , while line  16 iv leads the rest of the acetic acid to a re-boiler  52 , and in turn close to the bottom of the stripper zone of the column  18 . For all practical purposes, the majority of the cyclohexane and substantially all the water in the vapors exiting the reaction chamber  12 , pass through the first column  18 , are condensed in the condenser  20 , and are separated in the decanter  22 . Part of the condensed cyclohexane may be returned to the top of the column  18  through line  18 ii. As it moves downward, it causes condensation of the acetic acid, which returns to the stripper zone. A controlled part of the condensed cyclohexane is returned to the reaction chamber  12  through line  22 ii and valve  22 ″. Also, a controlled amount of water is recycled in most cases to the reaction chamber  12  through line  22 iii. Otherwise, a controlled amount of fresh water may be added to the reaction chamber  12 , so that the catalyst remains in solution under the operation conditions. At the same time the amount of water recycled or added, should preferably be low enough, so that substantially a single liquid phase is present in the reaction zone  14  of the reaction chamber  12 . Formation or existence of a second liquid phase in the reaction zone  14  reduces considerably the reaction rate and reactivity, as aforementioned. 
     The reaction mixture from the reaction chamber  12  is fed to the distillation column  28 , as shown in FIG.  6 . The catalyst contained in the reaction mixture, which enters the column  28 , remains in the stripper zone as being non-volatile. The main liquid component in the stripper zone is acetic acid, which contains dissolved catalyst. Part of this solution is recycled through line  26 iv and the re-boiler  62 , while part of it is moved into the de-watering/precipitation chamber  26  through line  26 v. 
     The degree of de-watering in the column  28 , and the re-boiler loop  26 ii- 26 iv- 62 - 62 i, is kept in a manner to ensure that the catalyst remains in solution, but close enough to the precipitation point, so that when the solution is treated in the de-watering/precipitation chamber  26 , catalyst precipitation occurs. The treatment in the de-watering/precipitation chamber  26  comprises further de-watering, to a water level at which catalyst precipitates at the temperature maintained in the de-watering/precipitation chamber  26 . The de-watering in the de-watering/precipitation chamber  26  is achieved by cyclohexane entering the chamber  26  through line  32 iv, and exiting through line  26 i as vapor containing water. A slurry containing the precipitated catalyst is directed, preferably in a continuous stream, through line  26 iii to the first solids separator  34 , where the precipitated catalyst is separated and removed through line  34 ii. The rest of the operation is similar to the operation of the embodiments described earlier. 
     In another embodiment of the instant invention, better illustrated in FIG. 7, there is provided line  32 iv, which transfers cyclohexane to the de-watering/precipitation chamber  26  after preferably passing the cyclohexane through a cyclohexane heater  54 . 
     The operation of this embodiment is similar to the operation of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, with the difference that no vapors of cyclohexane containing water are transferred from the chamber  26  to the column  28 . The precipitation in this case is caused by the enrichment of the acetic acid solution of catalyst with cyclohexane. As mentioned earlier, the higher the level of cyclohexane in a solution containing catalyst, the higher the level of water at which catalyst precipitates. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, better illustrated in FIG. 8, there is provided a line  56  for introducing controlled amounts of an anhydride, such as acetic acid anhydride for example, or any other appropriate water removing substance. 
     The operation of this embodiment is similar to the operation of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, with the difference that no vapors of cyclohexane containing water are transferred from the chamber  26  to the column  28 , and no enrichment of the acetic acid solution of catalyst with cyclohexane is conducted. Instead, a small controlled amount of an anhydride, such as acetic acid anhydride for example, is introduced to the chamber  26  through line  56 . Since the water level entering the chamber  26  is preferably controlled to be close to the catalyst precipitation level, only small amounts of acetic acid anhydride are required to reduce the water content of the solution entering the chamber  26  through line  26 v, to the catalyst precipitation level. A stream (not shown) of hydrocarbon, such as cyclohexane for example, may also be introduced to chamber  44  in order to facilitate the catalyst precipitation process. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, better illustrated in FIG. 9, there is provided a heater  46  for raising the temperature of the solution from the entry temperature through line  26 v to an adequate degree that catalyst precipitation occurs. In order to have a reduced temperature in column  28 , the pressure is reduced through line  32 i. Since the precipitation chamber  44  operates at higher pressure and temperature, a pump (not shown) or other similar device forces the liquid into the precipitation chamber  44  through line  26 v. 
     The operation of this embodiment is similar to the operation of the previous embodiment. The water level of the solution entering the chamber  44  is preferably controlled to be close to the catalyst precipitation level at the entry temperature, as discussed above. In the precipitation chamber  44 , the temperature is raised by the heater  46  to a degree that catalyst precipitates, since at the higher temperatures, the level of water at or under which catalyst precipitates is raised. 
     In still another embodiment of the present invention, better illustrated in FIG. 10, there is provided a condenser  60 , connected to the chamber  26  through line  73 , and to vessel  58  through line  74 . 
     The operation of this embodiment is similar to the operation of the previous embodiments. The water level of the solution entering the chamber  44  is preferably controlled to be close to the catalyst precipitation level at the operating temperature. The chamber  26  is heated by any appropriate means, and acetic acid vapors are transferred to the condenser  60 , where they condense, and the acetic acid is collected in vessel  58 , from which it may be further transferred to any desired portion of the reactor device. The acetic acid (along with residual water) removal from chamber  26  is controlled so that the concentration of catalyst is increased and the water level decreased to the point that catalyst precipitates, and removed in the first solids separator  34 , as discussed for the previous embodiments. 
     In another embodiment, better illustrated in FIG. 11, de-watering in column  28  is controlled to the point that catalyst precipitates within the column  28  and the re-boiler  62 . In order to prevent or minimize adhering of catalyst to the solid surfaces of the column and the re-boiler, it is preferable to recycle a small amount (nominally 5-10%) of the crystals separated through line  34 ii, back to the column  28  via line  74 . Line  74  is preferably positioned at such level of the column that no substantial dissolution of the catalyst crystals occurs. The crystals provide seeds/sites for crystal growth and prevent, or minimize, or at least reduce catalyst deposition on the solid surfaces of the column and the re-boiler. On many occasions, it is preferable to use a grinder  76  for grinding the crystals of the catalyst returning to the column  28  to a smaller size. Seeds from other sources may also be used. These seeds may comprise catalyst or may comprise other substances suitable for providing catalyst crystallization sites. 
     In another embodiment, better illustrated in FIG. 12, and similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, partial precipitation is induced in the column  28  and the re-boiler  62  and partial precipitation is induced in the de-watering/precipitation chamber  26 . Preferably, a minor amount of precipitation (e.g., 5-20%) is caused to take place in the column  28  and re-boiler  62 , and the rest in the de-watering/precipitation chamber  26 . Preferably, in this case also, a small amount (nominally 5-10%) of the crystals separated through line  34 ii, are recycled back to the column  28  via line  74 , and more preferably they are ground to a rather uniform smaller size by passing through grinder  76 . The re-boiler loop may be omitted, if so desired, in which case, the column is driven by the vapor entering the column through line  26 i. 
     In another embodiment, better illustrated in FIG. 14, and similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, the re-boiler  62  is also fed from line  34 i, which contains no catalyst crystals, but the total catalyst precipitation takes place in the column  28 . 
     In still another embodiment, better illustrated in FIG. 15, line  16 iii enters the column at a higher portion, so that the rectification zone is eliminated or greatly reduced. Two phases are formed in the decanter  22  from vapors condensed in condenser  30 . An upper non-polar phase contains mainly cyclohexane with minor amounts of acetic acid and water, while a lower polar phase contains mainly water and acetic acid with minor amounts of cyclohexane. The two phases are separated and treated in any desirable manner, depending on the details of the process. The catalyst precipitation takes place in the column and in the re-boiler, as in other embodiments. 
     A series of more than one columns may also be used, if so desired, in order to achieve a higher de-watering degree before precipitation in a camber such as chamber  26 , or chamber  44 , or any other appropriate chamber. A single multi-stage column, having an effect of more than one columns arranged in series may also be used. Further, columns in parallel may be used to increase the total flow in the system, while maintaining a rather low flow in each column. 
     It should be understood that according to the present invention, any liquids or gases or off-gases may be recycled totally or partially from any section to any other section, if so desired. Further, any combinations of the exemplifying embodiments, in part or in total, or any equivalent arrangements or any combinations of equivalent arrangements may be utilized, and are within the scope of the present invention. 
     Although miscellaneous functions are preferably controlled by a computerized controller, it is possible, according to this invention, to utilize any other type of controller or even manual controls and/or labor for controlling one or more functions. Preferred computerized controllers are artificially intelligent systems (expert systems, neural networks, and fuzzy logic systems, well known to the art). Of the three types of the artificially intelligent systems, the neural network, which is a learning system, collects information from different places of the device (for example pressure, temperature, chemical or other analysis, etc.), stores this information along with the result (pressure drop rate, reaction rate, reactivity, and the like, for example), and is programmed to use this information in the future, along with other data if applicable, to make decisions regarding the action to be taken at each instance. The expert systems are programmed based on the expertise of experienced human beings. The fuzzy logic systems are based on intuition rules in addition to expertise rules. 
     Oxidations according to this invention, are non-destructive oxidations, wherein the oxidation product is different than carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and a mixture thereof, such as adipic acid for example. Of course, small amounts of these compounds may be formed along with the oxidation product, which may be one product or a mixture of products. 
     Examples include, but of course, are not limited to preparation of C5-C8 aliphatic dibasic acids from the corresponding saturated cycloaliphatic hydrocarbons, such as for example preparation of adipic acid from cyclohexane. Examples of aromatic carboxylic acids are benzoic acid, phthalic acid, isophthalic acid, and terephthalic acid, among others. 
     Regarding adipic acid, the preparation of which is especially suited to the methods and apparatuses of this invention, general information may be found in a plethora of U.S. Patents, among other references. These include, but are not limited to: 
     U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,223,493; 2,589,648; 2,285,914; 3,231,608; 3,234,271; 3,361,806; 3,390,174; 3,530,185; 3,649,685; 3,657,334; 3,957,876; 3,987,100; 4,032,569; 4,105,856; 4,158,739 (glutaric acid); U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,263,453; 4,331,608; 4,606,863; 4,902,827; 5,221,800; and 5,321,157. 
     Diacids (for example adipic acid, phthalic acid, isophthalic acid, terephthalic acid, and the like) or other suitable compounds may be reacted, according to well known to the art techniques, with a third reactant selected from a group consisting of a polyol, a polyamine, and a polyamide in a manner to form a polymer of a polyester, or a polyamide, or a (polyimide and/or polyamideimide), respectively. Preferably the polyol, the polyamine, and the polyamide are mainly a diol, a diamine, and a diamide, respectively, in order to avoid excessive cross-linking. The polymer resulting from this reaction may be spun by well known to the art techniques to form fibers. 
     Examples demonstrating the operation of the instant invention have been given for illustration purposes only, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this invention in any way. In addition it should be stressed that the preferred embodiments discussed in detail hereinabove, as well as any other embodiments encompassed within the limits of the instant invention, may be practiced individually, or in any combination thereof, according to common sense and/or expert opinion. Individual sections of the embodiments may also be practiced individually or in combination with other individual sections of embodiments or embodiments in their totality, according to the present invention. These combinations also lie within the realm of the present invention. Furthermore, any attempted explanations in the discussion are only speculative and are not intended to narrow the limits of this invention.