Using a Two‐Stage Microcapillary Reactor for the Kinetic Investigation of Esterification Reactions

Abstract A two‐stage microreactor for kinetic parameter determination is investigated, with reaction progress monitored via NIR between stages and GC at the outlet. The system integrates an integral and a differential reactor to ensure well‐defined conditions. Mass and heat transport analysis confirms ideal reactor behavior. This enables kinetic data determination for the acid‐catalyzed esterification of acetic acid with methanol, showing consistency across reactor sections and alignment with literature values. Due to excellent heat transfer and reactor validity, the runaway‐prone reaction between acetic anhydride and methanol is also studied, demonstrating strong agreement with literature data.