Synthesis of Acetic Acid from Methanol and Carbon Monoxide on the Nickel-Based Catalysts Supported on Active Carbon

Abstract

Vapor-phase carbonylation of methanol to acetic acid under atmospheric pressure has been investigated with nickel-based catalysts supported on an active carbon. The reaction-gas mixture composed of 17 vol% CH₃0H, 66 vol% CO, 2.5 vol% CH₃ I, and 14 vol% N₂ was allowed to flow through the catalyst bed at a space velocity of 700 in the temperature range of 260∼360°C. Acetic acid formed as the major product accompanied by small amounts o f methyl acetate and methane on the catalyst of 4.8% Ni-2.5% La₂O₃ -1.2% Ru, 5.0% Ni-2.8% La₂ O₃, 1-10% Ni or even NiCl₂ (1% as Ni). In the case of 10% Ni catalyst, the maximum space-time yield of acetic acid (3.93 mol⋅ l^-1⋅h^-1) was obtained at 320°C under complete conversion of methanol. These catalysts surpassed the 2% Rh catalyst supported on the same active carbon in the maximum yield and selectivity of acetic acid.