Glycerol etherification over acid ion exchange resins: effect of catalyst concentration and reusability

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundA study of the effect of different ion exchange resins, Amberlyst 15, Amberlite 200 and Amberlite IRC‐50, on glycerol etherification with tert‐butyl alcohol was performed. The best catalyst was selected based on the activity and selectivity values. The capability of reusing this catalyst after different pre‐treatments was analysed. A kinetic model was developed including the effect of catalyst concentration and temperature.ResultsAmberlyst 15 led to the highest glycerol conversion, the highest product yield, and it could be reused following proper pre‐treatment with methanol. The effect of catalyst concentration was evaluated and included in a previous kinetic model. Simulated results were found to be suitably fitted to the experimental ones.ConclusionsThe high activity value of Amberlyst 15 is related to its high acidity and better textural properties. Reuse of this catalyst was possible with an appropriate previous treatment. A kinetic model was validated including the effect of catalyst concentration and temperature on reactants conversion and products distribution. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry