USE OF INEXPENSIVE CATALYSTS FOR THE CONVERSION OF BIO-DME INTO COMMODITY CHEMICALS

摘要

The high uncertainty on biofuels market and the technical limitations result in a high risk of investmentrnfor thermochemical biorefineries. In this study, we present the preliminary results of the BIOTER (ThermochemicalrnBiorefineries based on dimethyl ether) project, where dimethyl ether (DME) and syngas are converted into methylrnand ethyl acetates. The conversion of DME into more valuable products, which are currently used in thernpetrochemical sector, enhances process economy reducing the risk of investment. Within the BIOTER project,rninexpensive catalysts are used for a high-selective conversion of DME at mild operating conditions. In the process, arnwater-free mix of products is produced (methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, ethanol, methanol and DME). Further studyrnshould cover the regeneration of the catalyst.