摘要 |
<p>A method for preparing a product from non-product streams, such as waste or byproduct liquid streams, uses a phase transfer catalyst to enhance the reaction between two or more constituents each from a separate non-product stream. Since the non-product streams have different phases, a phase transfer catalyst may be used to transfer a chemical species from the aqueous phase to the organic phase where it will react. In one embodiment, the aqueous solution is contacted with an electrophile and a phase transfer catalyst and, optionally, a pH adjusting agent in the event that the chemical species in the aqueous solution needs to be ionized. A method for continuously preparing a product involves carrying out two processes providing two non-product streams, then contacting the two non-product streams in the presence of a phase transfer catalyst, then separating the aqueous phase from the organic phase, and then dividing the organic phase into the product and the phase transfer catalyst, which is then recycled or discarded. The catalyst can also remain in the aqueous phase and be discarded from there.</p> |