One-step production of 1,3-propanediol from ethylene oxide and syngas with a catalyst with a N-heterocyclic ligand

摘要

Disclosed is a new catalyst composition comprising a bimetallic Co-Ru catalyst complexed with a N-heterocylcic ligand that is effective, economical, and provides improvements in oxidative stability in the one step synthesis of 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) from ethylene oxide and synthesis gas. For example, cobalt-ruthenium-2,2'-bipyrimidine, 2,2'-dipyridyl, or 2,4,6-tripridyl-s-triazine catalyst precursors in cyclic ether solvents, such as 1,3-dioxolane, 1,4-dioxolane, 1,4-dioxane, and 2-ethyl-2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane, provide good yields of 1,3-PDO in a one step synthesis.