Simultaneous Synthesis of MTBE and ETBE

[phex]

has anybody ever coped with this, and can direct me to some papers regarding this topic? i am specifically looking for information regarding the possible by-product MEE (Methyl ethyl ether), kinetic data as well as any other info regarding MEE.

Thanks alot for time & help,
chris

 

[25362]

I've read that the system used for MTBE synthesis is quite flexible and can be used for the production of TAME and other ethers as well, depending on the olefin feed used. A simultaneous co-production of MTBE and ETBE would need both methanol and ethanol. The reaction kinetics may differ. Sorry, I haven't heard of this approach.

Apparently additional fractionation would be needed to separate the ethers, once excess alcohols and C₄'s have been removed from the reactor effluents in the debutanizer and further separated from the C₅+ ether-enriched debutanizer bottoms.

I believe somewhere in the US Mid-West, where ethanol is more readily available, an ETBE plant or plants have been erected by now.

I can't help you on the MEE issue.

 

[phex]

thx 25362.
you are right, the process is flexible enough to be adapted for other ethers with just some few changes neccessary. ether separation wouldn't be neccessary as both MTBE and ETBE can be blended in simultaneously.
but one customer had the fancy idea to evaluate a transient state, when the feed alcohols are changed from methanol to ethanol, they don't want to use up the old stock, clean the storage facilities, then refill with other alcohol, then restart. they just want to top up with the second alcohol and then proceed to produce a mixed-ether-product untill the methanol is diluted infinitely. but, as already said, there are some byproducts, one of which is an ether formed of two alcohol molecules. normally, this would be DME (Di-Methyl-Ether) for MTBE and DEE (Di-Ethyl-Ether) for ETBE. in this combined process, we would get a third species, the asymetrical MEE (Methyl-Ethyl-Ether). this is for further clarification of my request. hope someone here has already dealt with this.

thx, helpers.
chris