One-step synthesis of ethyl acetate from ethene and oxygen

A one-step synthesis of ethyl acetate from a feed mixture of ethene, oxygen, and water using a supported Pd and silicotungstic acid catalyst was demonstrated. At about 180°C and 25% ethene conversion, ethyl acetate could be produced with up to 46% selectivity, together with 34% acetic acid and ethanol that could be recycled. The catalyst was believed to be bifunctional, with Pd providing the oxidation function and the silicotungstic acid providing the acidic function.