Selectivity engineering in multiphase transfer catalysis in the preparation of aromatic ethers

IEC 186

Ganapati D. Yadav and Omprakash Badure. Department of Chemical Engineering, Mumbai University Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Road, Matunga, Mumbai, 400019, India
Liquid-Liquid-Liquid phase transfer catalysis is the new area of research in catalysis. In L-L-L PTC, the catalyst forms a middle phase between other two phases. This catalyst rich phase can be reused repeatedly. L-L-L PTC offers much higher rates of reaction as well as better selectivities. The etherification or alkoxylation of benzyl chloride leads to industrially important intermediate. The etherification of benzyl chloride with phenol and sodium hydroxide under L-L-L PTC was studied using tetrabutylammoniumbromide (TBAB) and a kinetic model has been built. There is considerable enhancement in the rate in comparison with the biphasic reaction. Different operating strategies were also evaluated.