Sequential and independent synthesis of mercaptans and asymmetrical sulfides in a single reactor

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to processes to produce a mercaptan and an asymmetrical sulfide utilize stacked bed catalyst systems containing CoMo and NiMo, and these processes demonstrate a synergistic reduction in the amount of ethylene, methyl mercaptan, ethyl mercaptan, and H2S in product mixtures. In aspects, the conversion of limiting reactants in the synthesis of asymmetrical sulfides unexpectedly remain high under increased flow rates through the catalyst bed, and under reduced temperatures and pressures. In further aspects, reactor systems configured for the independent synthesis of mercaptans and asymmetrical sulfides in a single fixed bed catalyst vessel are also disclosed as a simplification of existing reactor systems employing separate reactors for separate mercaptan and sulfide syntheses.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.