The vapor-phase alkylation of benzene with ethanol to ethylbenzene in a one-step process has been commercialized using DF-ASTM zeolite catalyst. A newly developed catalyst comprised of binder-free ZSM-5 zeolite with high Si/Al ratios of 100 � 200, has been put into commercial use to replace ethylene by ethanol as the feedstock for ethylbenzene. The catalyst showed high conversion and long life duration for more than 12 months. The catalyst was further modified with stream treatment and phosphorous impregnation which enhanced the selectivity towards formation of ethylbenzene because of the elimination of the strong acid sites in HZSM-5. In addition, proper reaction conditions with temperature of 360 - 390 ?, pressure of 1.0 MPa and benzene to ethanol molar ratios of 4 - 6 made the best performance of the catalyst. This alkylation process offers an alternative way to manufacture important aromatic hydrocarbons using low-valued ethanol from biomass materials.

Synthesis, modification, and application of DF-AS<sup>TM</sup> zeolite catalyst for alkylation of benzene with ethanol

244th National Meeting (2012)

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Synthesis, modification, and application of DF-ASTM zeolite catalyst for alkylation of benzene with ethanol

Synthesis, modification, and application of DF-AS^TM zeolite catalyst for alkylation of benzene with ethanol