Process for removing hydrogenation catalyst residue from hydrogenated polymers

摘要

This invention relates to a process for removing hydrogenation catalyst residue from hydrogenated polymers comprising: (I) treating a polymer cement comprising an unsaturated polymer in an inert water-immiscible liquid with a hydrogen source in the presence of a hydrogenation catalyst; (II) contacting the polymer cement of step (I) with one or more aqueous solution(s) of a weak acid having a pKa greater than 1.5 (determined in water at 25° C.); (III) contacting the polymer cement of step (II) with one or more aqueous solution(s) of a weak base having a pKa smaller than 10.5; and (IV) separating the hydrogenated polymer.