It is also very important to use new equipment to separate impurities and improve product quality.

Modern production technologies for pesticide intermediates focus on adopting innovative methods and advanced equipment to enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and improve product quality. One key area is the search for chemical reactions that are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. For example, replacing catalytic hydrogenation with iron powder or sulfuric alkali reduction can lead to shorter processes, higher yields, better product quality, and reduced waste, which is especially beneficial in the synthesis of aromatic nitro compounds.

Phase transfer catalysis is another promising technique that can speed up reactions, lower reaction temperatures, and make previously difficult reactions feasible. It also allows for better control over the formation of isomers and improves selectivity. Enzymes, as highly efficient biocatalysts, operate under mild conditions and can perform specific reactions such as hydrolysis or oxidation. For instance, lipases or hydrolases can facilitate the hydrolysis of certain compounds, while oxidases can introduce functional groups like phenols into aromatic molecules. Enzymes are also useful in separating stereoisomers, offering precise control over molecular structure.

A notable example is the German company Herschite, which pioneered the substitution of aromatic nitro groups with chlorine atoms. Using a catalyst and high-temperature chlorination, they successfully converted meta-dinitrobenzene into meta-dichlorobenzene. In addition, the use of advanced equipment for impurity removal and purification plays a crucial role in improving product quality. A case in point is the m-phenoxybenzaldehyde produced by Jiangsu Chemical Pesticide Group Co., Ltd. Initially, its purity was below 98%, but after implementing computer-controlled membrane separation technology, the purity exceeded 99%, enabling full export instead of relying on imports.

Continuously developing new processes and strengthening engineering research are essential for upgrading existing production methods in the manufacturing of pesticide intermediates. This includes studying the replacement of outdated techniques with more efficient ones, ensuring feasibility through thorough analysis. Even when the raw material route remains unchanged, introducing new catalysts or technologies in individual reaction steps can significantly improve product quality, increase yield, and reduce costs, waste, and emissions. These improvements are particularly important for general-purpose intermediates used in large-scale production.

Engineering research focused on mass transfer, heat transfer, and separation processes helps reduce material and energy consumption while enhancing product quality. Whether it's developing new methods or refining existing ones, ongoing technical support and research from scientific institutions greatly contribute to success. Having a dedicated team and reliable research backing ensures that innovations are not only developed but also effectively implemented in real-world applications.