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What is the optimal reaction conditions (temperature, pressure, and catalyst) for the synthesis of polyethylene terephthalate from terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol to achieve the highest yield and purity?

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The optimal reaction conditions for the synthesis of polyethylene terephthalate  PET  from terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol involve a two-step process: esterification and polycondensation. 1. Esterification: In this step, terephthalic acid reacts with ethylene glycol to form bis 2-hydroxyethyl  terephthalate  BHET . The optimal reaction conditions for this step are:   - Temperature: 220-260C   - Pressure: Atmospheric pressure   - Catalyst: Zinc acetate or titanium IV  butoxide2. Polycondensation: In this step, BHET undergoes polymerization to form PET. The optimal reaction conditions for this step are:   - Temperature: 270-290C   - Pressure: Reduced pressure  0.1-1.0 mmHg  to facilitate the removal of ethylene glycol by-product   - Catalyst: Antimony trioxide  Sb2O3  or titanium IV  butoxideThese conditions should provide high yield and purity of polyethylene terephthalate. However, it is essential to note that the exact conditions may vary depending on the specific process and equipment used.

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