The development of a new generation of methyl chloride synthesis catalyst.
In previous work by the authors, aspects of the surface chemistry connected with methyl chloride synthesis over an η-alumina catalyst have been examined. This communication considers a role for Group 1 metal salts to modify the catalytic performance of the well characterised η-alumina catalyst. Firstly, based on a previously postulated mechanism for the reaction of methanol on η-alumina, a mechanism for methyl chloride synthesis over the η-alumina catalyst is proposed. Secondly, the validity of the new mechanism is tested by observing how the (i) type and (ii) loading of the Group 1 metal salt may perturb methyl chloride selectivity. The outcomes of these measurements are rationalised with reference to the postulated mechanism. Overall, this study represents an example of how a proposed reaction mechanism has been used to inform and guide a catalyst development strategy for a large-scale industrial process.
School of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK. David.Lennon@Glasgow.ac.uk.
Alastair R
AR
McInroy
School of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK. David.Lennon@Glasgow.ac.uk.
John M
JM
Winfield
Inovyn, South Parade, Runcorn, Cheshire WA7 4JE, UK.
Chris C
CC
Dudman
Inovyn, South Parade, Runcorn, Cheshire WA7 4JE, UK.
Peter
P
Jones
School of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK. David.Lennon@Glasgow.ac.uk.
David
D
Lennon