This work describes an improved new reaction scheme for catalytic alcohol dehydration to the corresponding alkene, particularly as applied to styrene monomer production from 1-phenylethanol. The reaction was carried out in a bubble column containing an ionic liquid acid catalyst, which remains in liquid phase at the reaction conditions. The catalyst was set in a bubble tray and jacketed for heat supply, and a vapor containing the alcohol was fed through it. Good reaction control and high selectivity to styrene monomer (> 97%) were achieved. Reduced ethylbenzene production (selectivity < 0.01%) and ether and styrene oligomer formation (negligible) were observed compared to conventional systems.