Catalysis Today, Vol.65, No.2-4, 381-389, 2001
Comparative study of IPTBE synthesis on HZSM-5 and ion-exchange resin catalysts
The title ether was synthesized using a batch reactor at 70-90 degreesC and 1.6MPa. The ion-exchange resins Amberlyst 15, Amberlyst 35 and Purolite CT275, and HZSM-5 zeolites with a SiO2/Al2O3 ratio between 28 and 120 were used as catalysts. IPTBE synthesis rapidly reaches chemical equilibrium in the presence of resins with selectivities of 95-97%, diisobutene being the main byproduct. HZSM-5 zeolites are less active and selective than resin catalysts. Resins, especially Amberlyst 35, are suitable catalysts for obtaining IPTBE industrially.