Applied Catalysis A: General, Vol.181, No.2, 355-398, 1999
Disproportionation and transalkylation of alkylbenzenes over zeolite catalysts
Disproportionation and transalkylation are important processes for the interconversion of mono-, di-, and tri-alkylbenzenes. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in process technology with special focus on improvements of para-isomer selectivity and catalyst stability. Extensive patent search and discussion on technology development are presented. The key criteria for process development are identified. The working principles of para-isomer selectivity improvements involve the reduction of diffusivity and the inactivation of external surface. In conjunction with the fundamental research, various practical modification aspects particularly the pre-coking and the silica deposition techniques, are extensively reviewed. The impact of para-isomer selective technology on process economics and product recovery strategy is discussed. Furthermore, perspective trends in related research and development are provided.
Keywords:SHAPE-SELECTIVE REACTIONS;CHEMICAL-VAPOR-DEPOSITION;LARGE-PORE ZEOLITES;TOLUENE DISPROPORTIONATION;EXTERNAL SURFACE;MOLECULAR-SIEVE;COKE FORMATION;CUMENE DISPROPORTIONATION;P-XYLENE;REACTION-MECHANISMS