Hydroformylation

Catalyst Characterization

In a hydroformylation, the catalyst is a very expensive part of the process. Air oxidation of the active species is the first step in losing the valuable metal catalyst. In some cases, converting the catalyst back to active form can be accomplished, but at a cost to production and resources.

The ability to monitor the catalyst for activity and selectivity is of great importance. Real-time, in situ mid-infrared technology provides knowledge about the catalyst by monitoring the metal carbonyl bands in the 2200 – 1900 cm-1 region where few other species absorb. The H2/CO ratio also affects the amount of active catalyst. Investigating different gas ratios and environments provides the ability to gain insight into the catalyst mechanism and selectivity. Catalyst intermediates can also be observed to elucidate their impact on product yield and purity.

Characterization of the catalyst in a hydroformulation can be accomplished by the ReactIR^TM, which is sensitive enough to allow the catalyst to be monitored at levels less than 500 ppm. Patented Comp™ probe technology provides sufficient robustness to withstand the harsh temperature and pressure of the process environment.

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