Monsanto process

The Monsanto process is an important method for the manufacture of iridium-based process developed by BP Chemicals Ltd which is more economical and environmentally friendly.

Catalytic cycle

The acetic acid.

The reaction has been shown to be nucleophilic attack by the rhodium centre on the carbon of methyl iodide.

Tennessee Eastman Acetic Anhydride Process

methyl acetate in a process that was inspired by the Monsanto acetic acid synthesis.^[1]

CH₃CO₂CH₃ + CO → (CH₃CO)₂O

In this process methyl acetate converts to methyl iodide, which in turn affords acetyl iodide, which reacts with acetate salts or acetic acid to give the product. Rhodium iodides and lithium salts are employed as catalysts. Because acetic anhydride is not stable in water, the conversion is conducted under anhydrous conditions in contrast to the Monsanto acetic acid synthesis.

References

1. ^ Zoeller, J. R.; Agreda, V. H.; Cook, S. L.; Lafferty, N. L.; Polichnowski, S. W.; Pond, D. M. "Eastman Chemical Company Acetic Anhydride Process" Catalysis Today (1992), volume 13, pp.73-91. doi:10.1016/0920-5861(92)80188-S

• http://www.uyseg.org/catalysis/ethacid/ethacid2.htm
• http://www.uyseg.org/greener_industry/pages/ethanoicAcid/6ethanoicAcidPM2.htm