Processfor the preparation of butane-1.4-diol

摘要: A process for the production of butane-1,4-diol comprises hydrogenating a di-(C₁ to C₃ alkyl) ester C₄ dicarboxylic acid, e.g. an but-2-en-1,4-dioic acid, such as diethyl maleate, in vapour phase at temperature from about 150°C 240°C and pressure range about 25 bar 75 presence reduced copper chromite catalyst, recovering resulting butane-­ 1,4-diol containing reaction product. The catalyst contains, before reduction, 45% by weight of copper 20 35% chromium preferably has internal surface area least 30 sq. m per gram. is conducted two or more zones, which are operated adiabatically, feed first zone being higher than that least one subsequent zone.