Particle size distribution for fluidized-bed process for making alkylhalosilanes

摘要

An improved process for the reaction of an alkyl halide with particulate silicon in a fluidized-bed process is described herein. The improvement comprises controlling the particle size of the silicon within a range of one micometer to 85 micrometers. Preferred is when the particle size of the silicon has a mass distribution characterized by a 10th percentile of 2.1 to 6 micrometers, a 50th percentile of 10 to 25 micrometers and a 90th percentile of 30 to 60 micrometers. Most preferred is when the particle size mass distribution of the silicon is characterized by a 10th percentile of 2.5 to 4.5 micrometers, a 50th percentile of 12 to 25 micrometers and a 90th percentile of 35 to 45 micrometers. The process is run in the presence of a catalyst composition comprising copper and other catalysts.