Process for the preparation of a tertiary alkyl ether by reactive distillation.

摘要

Process for the preparation of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) by reaction of methanol with a mixture of hydrocarbons containing at least isobutene. The invention is characterised in that: - the said methanol and the said mixture are introduced into a reaction-distillation zone which contains at least two superposed and nonadjacent stationary beds (2a, 2b) of catalyst of the sulphonated resin type, at least one catalyst-free distillation zone, and at least one noncontinuous tray for redistributing liquid (5), - the distillation conditions in the said reaction-distillation zone are maintained so as to have a descending liquid phase (20) and an ascending vapour phase (30), - a vapour phase rich in unconverted hydrocarbons is discharged at the top (8) of the said zone, - an MTBE-rich liquid phase is drawn off at the base (10) of the said zone.