Supported Organometallic Catalysts for Hydrogenation and Olefin Polymerization ( 98038)

Northwestern University scientists have prepared a new class of olefin / arene hydrogenation and olefin polymerization heterogeneous catalysts that exhibit high conversion rates under ambient conditions. The novel catalysts are supported on sulfate-modified zirconia, which provide exceptional Lewis acidity and chemical reactivity, appropriate for industrial applications.

ADVANTAGE: High activity heterogeneous catalysts suitable for commercial olefin / arene hydrogenation and olefin polymerization under ambient conditions.

SUMMARY: Sulfated zirconia and related solids can provide superacid surfaces exceeding that of 100% H2SO4. Activation of Ziegler-type catalysts on these surfaces promotes exceptionally active hydrogenation and polymerization processes. Thus benzene affords cyclohexane (970 no conv substrates / metal atom / hr turnover) and 1-hexene yields hexane (2840 turnover) at 25 °C and 1 atm H2. Whereas ethylene efficiently generates polyethylene (3.9 x 104 g /[mole Zr-hr-atm ethylene]). Polymers with pendant arene and alkene substituents, and unsaturated or partially saturated polymers may also be hydrogenated. A family of catalytic compositions exhibiting a range of activity has been created.

U.S. Patent No. 6,235,918

Type of Offer: Licensing



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