Continuous method for the production of 1,2-diols

摘要

The continuous production of 1,2-diols by means of saponification of aliphatic, linear or branched epoxides with 8-30 carbon atoms or high molecular weight cycloaliphatic epoxides with water and acidic catalyst at pressures of 1-5 bar using a vapor-liquid mixture of a solubilizing agent which is stationary in a column. The yields obtained are high and exhibit a high degree of purity. The water added can be recycled as such.