HYDROGENOLYSIS OF DIPHENYL ETHER

Abstract

Hydrogenolysis of diphenyl ether was investigated at 550°C and 620°C and at pressures up to 1850 psig. Primary interest was the elucidation of cracking patterns at a hydrogen to diphenyl ether molar ratio of 2:1.

The primary reaction was C—O—C bond cleavage resulting in the formation of benzene and phenol. The secondary reaction was ring cracking resulting in the formation of gaseous components namely, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and lighter hydrocarbons.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

KRISHNA S. MEDEPALLI∗

Now with Midwest Research Institute, Research Triangle Park, Raleigh, N.C.