Abstract: A method and an apparatus for performing a continuous reaction with at least one liquid reaction phase incorporating at least one starting compound in the presence of at least one solid-phase catalyst, wherein the phases to be contacted are circulated through at least one pulsed reaction column (1). The liquid reaction phase is continuously fed into the middle or lower portion of the pulsed column (1), the liquid phase is circulated upwards through the pulsed column (1), and a counterflow made up of lumps (9) of a solid selective extraction compound is continuously circulated. Furthermore, each solid catalyst is continuously circulated through the pulsed column (1) in contact with the liquid phase.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for making a simple sugar solution from a liquid solution including at least one compound sugar by performing hydrolysis in the presence of a heterogeneous catalyst. The method comprises contacting the hydrolysis reaction medium with at least one microporous solid adsorbent compound selected for compatibility with the hydrolysis and . catalysis conditions and for selectively adsorbing by-products other than simple sugars under the hydrolysis reaction conditions. A pure, colourless, food-grade simple sugar solution is achieved.