Technology Unit

: Propene Oxidation Reactor
: BASF Dow HPPO
Short Name: Main Oxidation Reactor
Description: The dilute HP-Alcohol solution (HP concentration less than 10%) is introduced in a Fixed-Bed Epoxidation Reactor. ATi Silicalite (TS-1) Catalyst is used to produce PO from Propene and HP. The Reaction is carried out at 40°C and 20 atm pressure. Process PO yield is estimated to be around 95 mol.%; by-products are 1,2-Propandiol and the Ethers formed by the Methanolysis of the Oxirane Ring (1-Methoxy-2-propanol and 2-Methoxy-1-propanol), which may further react with PO to yield Dipropeneglycol Monomethylethers. PO may also form Propanol Hydroperoxides (1-Hydroperoxy-2-propanol and 2-Hydroperoxy-1-propanol). Other Side-Reactions such as the Decomposition of HP normally occur to a very low extent. The Output from the First Reactor consists of Methanol, Water, PO, By-Products, Unreacted Propene and HP; the PO yield achieved is 85% with a PO selectivity based on HP of 95%.
Link: https://www.drdarrinlew.us/sustainable-chemistry-2/from-the-dream-reaction-to-the-real-process-the-implemented-hppo-process.html