A catalytic reactor is used to produce formaldehyde (HCHO) from methanol (CH₃OH) by the reaction:

CH₃OH HCHO + H₂

A single pass conversion of 60% is achieved in the reactor. The methanol is separated from formaldehyde and H₂ in a multi-step process. The production rate of formaldehyde is 900 kg/hr.

a. Calculate the required feed rate of methanol to the process (kgmole/hr) if

there is no recycle.

Suppose the recovered methanol is recycled, while holding the single pass

conversion at 60% and the formaldehyde production rate at 900 kg/hr, as is shown in the diagram below. Find the fresh feed rate of methanol (kgmole/hr) and the recycle rate of pure methanol (kgmole/hr).