Inventors:
Robert N. Hunt - Steubenville OH
Gary F. Allen - New Martinsville WV
Julie A. Jackson - Houston TX
Peter Scharein - Baytown TX
Peter J. Ryan - Leverkusen, DE
Donald Macnaughton - New Martinsville WV
Klaus Sommer - Pittsburgh PA
Larry E. Philyaw - Seabrook TX
Assignee:
Bayer Corporation - Pittsburgh PA
International Classification:
G01J 502
Abstract:
An in-line spectrometric method for determining the distillation residue content in an opaque, dark-colored mixture containing an isocyanate and tar-like materials (residue) during the isocyanate production process. A probe capable of directing light at wavelengths of from 1050 to 2150 nm is inserted in a stream of the residue-containing mixture and light is transmitted through the stream. Light absorption data is collected and a near-infrared spectrum is generated. The residue content is then determined using a chemometric model. Knowledge of the residue content makes it possible to control and optimize the distillation process.