Dual catalyst sequential method for production of sorbitol from hydrolyzed starch solution.

摘要

A process for production of sorbitol from 50-98.5 DE hydrolyzed starch solution by hydrogenation over a nickel catalyst at a pH of from 3.0 to 7.0, 120 to 160 DEG C. and 500 to 2000 psig (35 to 140 bars) until the reducing sugar value is below 5 percent; removal of nickel catalyst, acidification to pH 1.0 to 2.5 and hydrogenation of the acidified solution over a ruthenium catalyst, 100 to 180 DEG C. and 500 to 2000 psig, until hydrogen uptake is substantially complete, and removal of the ruthenium catalyst.