Synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) from methanol and CO2 over Rh-supported catalysts

The synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) from methanol and CO2 has been investigated using a vapor phase flow reactor system and in the presence of various Rh-supported catalysts. The effects of reaction conditions, supports, and promoters on catalyst performance were evaluated in terms of methanol conversion and DMC selectivity. The results show that DMC synthesis proceeds effectively at low temperatures (353-433 K), while at higher temperatures dimethyl ether (DME) is the predominant product. Loss of surface chloride results in substantial catalyst system deactivation. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.