Ethylene Oxide Catalysis Under Commercial Conditions – A Guide for Researchers

Abstract

Selective oxidation of ethylene to ethylene oxide (EO) is performed industrially over catalysts comprised of silver particles supported on α-Al2O3. In addition to various oxy-anion and alkali promotors, alkyl chloride species (“chloride moderators”) are continuously introduced into commercial reactors. The effect and usage of chloride moderators is a key requirement for industrial ethylene epoxidation catalysts to reach optimal selectivity. While not an exhaustive review, the aim of this perspective is to provide guidance to academic researchers on the operation of EO catalysts under commercially relevant conditions with particular focus on the importance of performance optimization.