| abstract |
A process for the direct oxidation of an olefin, such as propylene, by oxygen to the corresponding olefin oxide, such as propylene oxide. The process involves contacting the olefin with oxygen under reaction conditions in the presence of a reducing agent, such as hydrogen, and in the presence of a catalyst. The catalyst comprises a metal component, such as a transition metal oxide, dispersed on a metal ion-exchanged metallosilicate, such as a Group 1 or Group 2 ion-exchanged porous aluminosilicate. Selectivity to the olefin oxide is high, and the catalyst is readily regenerated. |