(674a) Combining Homogeneous Reactions with Heterogeneous Separations for Hydroformylation Reactions Using Tunable Solvents

We are using Organic Aqueous Tunable Solvents (OATS) for the hydroformylation of p-methylstyrene. The reaction is carried out homogeneously in organic-water mixtures (30% water volume) using Rh/TPPMS catalytic complex under 30 bars of syngas (1:1 ratio of CO:H2). Reaction rates are improved by an order of magnitude with turnover frequency greater than 300. After the reaction, carbon dioxide is used to induce a phase split resulting in a heterogeneous system. The products partition in the organic-rich phase; easy and facile separation of the product is achieved with CO2 pressures similar to the reaction pressures (about 30 bar). The aqueous phase, which contains the catalyst and ligand, is recycled for the next reaction cycle. This process can be implemented directly in industrial setting with minor or no modifications to existing facilities. OATS reduce the need for distillation and improve the economics of the process while reducing environmental impact.

In this presentation, we shall introduce OATS and discuss the applications and advantages of this system. We will talk about p-methylstyrene hydroformylation in THF/H2O and ACN/H2O with emphasis on improved reaction rates and facile separations. Previous work covering 1-octene hydroformylation in OATS and catalyst/ligand recycles will also be covered.