Chemistry C3 - Continuous and batch processes

It typically takes around twelve years and over £500 million to make a new drug.

Continuous processes

A chemical that is needed in a large amount is usually made by a continuous process. Production goes on all the time. Ammonia is made by a continuous process called the Haber process.

Batch processes

A chemical that is needed in a small amount or only as needed (a speciality chemical) is usually made by a batch process. Production does not go on all the time…