Process for extending the lifetime of a mixed metal oxide catalyst

摘要

A process is provided for extending the lifetime of a mixed metal oxide catalyst, which is used for the oxidation of alkanes, or a mixture of alkanes and alkenes, to their corresponding unsaturated carboxylic acids. The process comprises a step of reversing flow direction of reactants in contact with the mixed metal oxide catalyst through the reactor. The mixed metal oxide may be an othorhombic phase material.