Page 167 - Chemical and process design handbook

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BUTYL ACRYLATE

Acrylates are still produced by a modified Reppe process that involves the
reaction of acetylene, the appropriate alcohol (in the case of butyl acrylate,
butyl alcohol is used), and carbon monoxide in the presence of an acid. The
process is continuous, and a small amount of acrylates is made this way.

CH CH + ROH + CO → CH =CHCOOR
2
The most economical method of acrylate production is that of the direct
oxidation of propylene to acrylic acid, followed by esterification.
CH =CHCH + O → CH =CHCOOH
2 3 2 2
CH =CHCOOH + ROH → CH =CHCOOR + H O
2 2 2
Esters of acrylic acid (acrylates) are used for manufacture of coatings,
textiles, fibers, polishes, paper, and leather.

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