High‐pressure syntheses of acetic and propionic acids from alcohols and carbon monoxide in presence of nickel, cobalt and iron catalysts

Abstract

AbstractOptimum yields of acids and esters are obtained with a nickel iodide catalyst supported on an equal weight of silica at about 230° and 3000 Ib./sq. in. pressure, the residence time being about 2 hours. The presence of about 5% of water in the alcohol is advantageous and increased yields of acid and ester are obtained when the bomb is cooled to ∼60° before release of gaseous pressure. The catalyst is reactivated after one use by addition of 0.5 ml. of water per 10 g. of catalyst. The decomposition of the alcohols and acids to gascous products (CO, H2 and saturated lower paraffins) is discussed.