Catalytic process for converting lower alkanes to esters, alcohols, and to hydrocarbons
US5306855A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 27, 1991 |
| Grant date | Apr 26, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 27, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S585/943
- WIPO fieldOrganic fine chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
This invention is a process for converting lower alkanes into their corresponding esters and optionally into various intermediates (such as alcohols) and other liquid hydrocarbons. The alkanes are oxidatively converted to oxy-esters at high selectivity and conversion and at practical reaction rates using at least catalytic amounts of certain class "B" metals and/or metal ions defined by the Pearson definition as "soft" or "borderline". Desirable catalysts comprise such metals as Pd, Tl, Pt, Hg, and Au. If so desired, the alkyl oxy-esters may be converted to alcohols or other intermediates such as alkyl halides. The oxy-esters, alcohols, and other intermediates may optionally be converted to liquid hydrocarbons such as gasoline.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.