Kinetics of vapor-phase isomerization of xylene at high pressure

Abstract

Kinetic studies of isomerization of xylene on cobalt ion-exchanged hydrogen mordenite catalyst under high pressure (about 190 psia), under the hydrogen atmosphere, at $400 ℃$, were executed. The relative rate constants of isomerization reactions were calculated using the Wei-Prater technique. The results are; ◁그림 삽입▷(원문을 참조하세요) And that disproportionation to toluene and trimethylbenzene is the major side reaction in these experimental conditions was shown. The effectiveness factor was obtained on the basis of diffusional limitation-free model. The surface reaction was expected to be a reaction controlling step. The characteristic reactions with respect to the acid sites were discussed. And the characteristics and mechanisms of disproportionation reaction were discussed. Disproportionation occurs via isomerization of 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene as well as transalkylation of xylenes.