Alkylation of phenol with tert-butyl alcohol catalysed by zeolite Hβ Original Research Article

The catalytic properties of zeolite beta in the tert-butylation of phenol are reported. The influence of various reaction parameters such as temperature, space velocity, molar ratio of the reactants are discussed. Medium acid sites on zeolite Hβ are advantageous in producing p-TBP, and that of strong acid sites are helpful for the formation of 2,4-DTBP, while weak acid sites are effective in producing o-TBP. In order to enhance the selectivity of p-TBP, a proper reaction temperature (418 K), lower reactant ratio (molar ratio) and moderate acidities on zeolite Hβ are recommended. On the basis of the behaviour obtained in the cases mentioned, information about the reaction path models is provided.