VAPOUR PHASE ESTER SYNTHESIS

摘要

This invention relates to a process for the production of lower aliphatic esters which comprises reacting a lower olefin with a saturated lower aliphatic monocarboxylic acid in the vapour phase in the presence of a heteropolyacid catalyst, characterised in that: a) the reaction is carried out in a plurality of reactors set up in series; and b) the feedstock is rendered substantially free of metallic or metal compound impurities prior to being brought into contact with the heteropolyacid catalyst.