The ferric chloride synthesis is carried out by two steps:
first step: dilution and reduction of FeCl3 solution on scrap iron by the following reaction:
2 FeCl3 + Fe -> 3 FeCl2
This reaction runs in continuous operation in two reactors in series.
The reaction is exothermic with 150 Kcal/kg FeCl3
second step: chlorination of FeCl2 solution to FeCl3 by the following reaction:
3 FeCl2 + 3/2 Cl2 -> 3 FeCl3
This reaction takes place in a packed tower running in continuous operation as regards to the gaseous chlorine and in batch operation as regards to the circulating solution.
The reaction is exothermic with 750 Kcal/kg Cl2
