Process Economics Program Report 6B

This report evaluates a new high conversion, two-step vapor phase propylene oxidation process for making acrylic acid. It also presents a revised economic analysis of the catalytic acetylene process, the other important commercial route to acrylic acid. Various alternative synthesis routes such as liquid phase oxidation of propylene and oxidative carbonylation of ethylene are discussed.

Included also is an updated evaluation of the manufacture of methyl and ethyl acrylates by alcohol esterification of acrylic acid. The report briefly reviews other processes for making the lower acrylic esters and outlines some recent developments in making the higher esters by transesterification. There is also a section on environmental considerations in acrylic esters manufacture.

Acrylic Acid and Acrylic Esters 6

Acrylic Acid and Acrylic Esters 6A

Acrylic Acid and Acrylic Esters 6C