| abstract |
A process for the formation of ester mixtures, comprising esters of monohydric and dihydric alcohols, by reacting synthesis gas (CO + H2) and carboxylic acid, at a temperature of 100 to 350 DEG C and a pressure of at least 34 atmospheres (500 psi) in the presence of a catalyst comprising ruthenium or osmium. Optionally a co-catalyst selected from alkali metal salts, alkaline earth metal salts, quaternary ammonium salts, iminium salts and quaternary aliphatic phosphonium salts is also employed. A typical reaction product comprises methyl acetate, ethyl acetate and ethylene glycol diacetate. |