Carbonylation process and catalyst

US5003104A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• BP Chemicals Limited · US

Inventors

• Frank E. Paulik · Chesterfield, US
• Arnold Hershman · Frontenac, US
• Walter R. Knox · Chesterfield, US
• Robert G. Schultz · Chesterfield, US
• James F. Roth · Allentown, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 31, 1988
• Grant date: Mar 26, 1991
• Expiry date: Oct 31, 2008

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B01J2531/822
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

This invention involves a process for the carbonylation of a carbonylatable reactant, e.g., an alkyl ester, a dialkyl ether or mixtures thereof by reacting the same with carbon monoxide. The process comprises effecting the carbonylation in the presence of a solution of a catalyst system containing a rhodium compound, an iodide and a lithium component at a temperature of from 50.degree. C. to 400.degree. C. at a carbon monoxide partial pressure of 1 psig to 15,000 psig. Hydrogen may also be present. The invention also concerns a carbonylation catalyst system effective for the addition of carbon monoxide to a carbonylatable reactant which comprises a solution containing as essential components a rhodium containing active component, an iodide and a lithium component.