PATENTS

3361.            SMITH, W. M.  (Standard Oil Development Co.).  Catalytic Reaction of Olefins With Carbon Monoxide and Hydrogen.  United States Patent 2,557,701.  June 19, 1951; appl. filed May 19, 1948, Serial No. 15,802; 4 claims (Cl. 260-694).

Oxo process, whereby olefinic compounds, CO, and H₂ are reacted to produce oxygenated organic compounds, is improved by controlling the temperature level in the adiabatic reaction zone without the disadvantages inherent in recirculating large volumes of cooling gases and by maintaining a high concentration of Co carbonyl catalyst throughout the carbonylation reaction zone.  The reactants are contacted under carbonylation conditions, comprising temperatures 250°-375° F. and pressures 2,500-3,500 p.s.i. with a Co carbonylation catalyst in the form of an oil-soluble soap such as Co naphthenate.  Liquid reaction products comprising aldehydes and containing Co carbonyl are withdrawn from the reaction zone and passed through a cooling zone into a separation zone maintained under the same pressure as the reaction zone.  The liquid products are separated from uncondensed gases, and a portion of the cooled liquid products containing Co carbonyl is recycled to the reaction zone.  The presence of dissolved Co carbonyl in the fresh feed at the reactor inlet is a distinct advantage.