ALKYLATION OF PHENOL WITH TERT-BUTYL ALCOHOL CATALYZED BY ZEOLITE H-BETA

The catalytic properties of zeolite beta in the tert-butylation of phe nol are reported. The influence of various reaction parameters such as temperature, space velocity, molar ratio of the reactants are discuss ed. Medium acid sites on zeolite H beta are advantageous in producing p-TBP, and that of strong acid sites are helpful for the formation of 2,4-DTBP, while weak acid sites are effective in producing o-TBP. In o rder to enhance the selectivity of p-TBF, a proper reaction temperatur e (418 K), lower reactant ratio (molar ratio) and moderate acidities o n zeolite H beta are recommended. On the basis of the behaviour obtain ed in the cases mentioned, information about the reaction path models is provided. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.