A method of catalytically forming reaction products can include providing an ionic liquid phase. The ionic liquid phase can include a catalyst and an ionic liquid. At least one reactant can be reacted (14,16) in the ionic liquid phase to produce reaction products which include at least one of methanol and dimethyl ether. In particular, the ionic liquid can be hydrophobic sufficient to prevent substantial water in the ionic liquid phase. The use of ionic liquids can substantially reduce or eliminate residual catalyst carrier, i.e. ionic liquid, in downstream steps.
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