Catalytic decomposition process of cumene hydroperoxide using sulfonic resins as catalyst

Abstract

A new catalytic process for cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) decomposition using sulfonic resins is developed. A macroporous sulfonic resin entitled TH-02 is selected as the catalyst. A novel three-phase circulating fluidized bed (TPCFB) reactor in which the geometry and the particular flow regime resolve the conflict between heat transfer and resin fragmentation is used for this process. RTD results show that this reactor approximates a CSTR, and solids and liquid are distributed uniformly in it. Under the optimal reaction conditions, which are a volumetric ratio of CHP to acetone 1:2–1:3, temperature 75–85 °C preferably 80 °C, solid holdup 1–1.5 wt.% and WHSV of CHP 30–40 h −1, the conversion and product selectivity of CHP can be over 99 and 98%, respectively.