ALKYLENE OXIDE PRODUCTION USING VAPOR PHASE OXIDATION OF AN ALKANE OR OLEFIN IN MOLTEN SALT AND RECIRCULATION OF ALDEHYDE BY-PRODUCTS

摘要

A continuous process for the vapor phase oxidation of an alkane or olefin in molten salt catalyst to produce alkylene oxides in increased yields while reducing or substantially eliminating the formation of aldehyde by-products. The process involves the continuous separation and recirculation of aldehydes, normally formed in the oxidation reaction, back into the vapor phase oxidation reaction for co-oxidation to form carbon-oxygen gases while increasing the olefin selectivity to alkylene oxide.