David C. Busby

A highly efficient catalyst system for the isomerization of methyl formate to acetic acid

Abstract Rh-LiI is a highly efficient catalyst for the isomerization of methyl formate to acetic acid. At 180°C the methyl formate conversion is ⪢99% and the molar selectivity to acetic acid is ⪢99%. Lil promotes the reaction apparently by cleaving methyl formate and methyl acetate, which is formed during the course of the reaction, to CH3I and the corresponding lithium formate and lithium acetate salts.

Cobalt-catalyzed reductive carbonylation of methyl esters to acetaldehyde and carboxylic acid

Abstract The reaction of methyl esters with synthesis gas and a Co—LiI catalyst results in the formation of anhydrous acetaldehyde and a carboxylic acid in very high yield. At 180 °C and 5000 psig, acetaldehyde is produced from methyl acetate at a rate of 7 M h −1 and >95% selectivity.

The role of phosphines and solvents in CoI2-catalyzed reductive carbonylation of methanol

Abstract The role of triphenylphosphine and solvents in the CoI 2 -catalyzed reductive carbonylation of methanol to acetaldehyde has been studied. When utilized within a controlled molar range, triphenylphosphine has little, if any, effect on the acetaldehyde rate and selectivity. It does serve to reduce corrosion to an acceptable level. Acetaldehyde selectivity is markedly improved by use of a solvent. With few exceptions, most solvents readily decompose under reaction conditions.

Cobalt-catalysed reductive carbonylation of methyl esters

Acetaldehyde and a carboxylic acid are obtained in high yield via the Col2–Lil-catalysed reaction of a methyl ester with synthesis gas.