Process for the production of macrocyclic esters and lactones utilizing double metal salt catalysts

摘要

A process is provided for the thermal depolymerization of polyesters to produce macrocyclic compounds utilizing mixed-metal catalysts. Useful mixed-metal catalysts consist of an aluminum alkoxide or aluminum carboxylate with an alkali metal or magnesium alkoxide or carboxylate, or double metal salts thereof. High yields and enhanced rates of reaction are obtained using the mixed-metal catalysts of this invention.