| abstract |
A continuous process is provided for selective formation of a vinyl ester by reactive distillation from a corresponding carboxylic acid. Carboxylic acid, vinyl acetate, and a palladium acetate - bidentate ligand catalyst complex are provided and reacted in a typical embodiment. Acetic acid and vinyl acetate are continuously removed from the reaction mixture and vinyl acetate is recycled to the reaction mixture. The vinyl ester product is separated from the vinyl acetate, residual carboxylic acid, residual acetic acid, and catalyst. |