Commercial production of maleic anhydride by catalytic processes using fixed bed reactors

Abstract

The production of maleic anhydride using n-butane feedstock in fixed bed reactors is the only technology that is used commercially in the USA today. This technology is also practiced in other parts of the world to a lesser extent. Key considerations in the commercial practice of fixed bed n-butane to maleic technology are presented. Major processing blocks considered are catalyst manufacture, n-butane supply, air compression, reaction system, maleic recovery/refining, and off gas incineration. Information presented is that in the open and patent literature plus unpublished non-confidential industry information.