Preparation of polyoxymethylene dimethyl ethers by catalytic conversion of formaldehyde formed by oxy-dehydrogenation of dimethyl ether

摘要

A particularly useful process for continuous production of a source of formaldehyde which is an un-purified liquid stream derived from a mixture formed by oxidative dehydrogenation (oxy-dehydrogenation) of at least dimethyl ether using a catalyst containing silver as an essential catalyst component is disclosed. Advantageously, the source of formaldehyde according to the invention is provided to an integrated, continuous process for catalytic production of oxygenated organic compounds, particularly polyoxymethylene dimethyl ethers, which are suitable components for blending into fuel having improved qualities for use in compression ignition internal combustion engines (diesel engines).