Catalytic synthesis of ethyl propionate from diethyl ether and carbon monoxide at high pressure

Abstract

AbstractThe catalytic synthesis of ethyl propionate from diethyl ether and carbon monoxide has been studied in the presence of nickel, cobalt and iron catalysts at a pressure range of 175–375 atm., and temperature range of 200–300°. Of the various catalysts tested, the iodides of iron, cobalt and nickel, supported on silica gel, exhibit the maximum catalytic activity. Reduced metals and their carbonyls are practically inactive. Under the optimum conditions (230°/240 atm.) the maximum yields of ethyl propionate and propionic acid were 28.2% and 10.1% respectively. The possible reactions leading to the formation of by‐products have been elucidated by decomposition studies.