28-P-11-Influence of OH groups of Beta zeolites on the synthesis of MTBE

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the influence of hydroxyl (OH) groups of Beta zeolites on the synthesis of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE). Vapor phase synthesis of MTBE over zeolite Beta is very efficient. The better catalytic performance of H-Beta is verified in liquid phase. The external surface area, the amount of bridging AlOHSi, and silanol groups are important zeolite parameters for the ether synthesis. The reaction occurs on bridging A1OHSi acid sites. The highest yields are reached for low SiOH/A1OHSi ratios, where methanol clusters bonded to silanol groups allow accessibility of isobutene to the active AIOHSi groups.