Application and Market of 1,4-butanediol Production of Reppe Method in China

Abstract

The industrial production methods of 1,4-butanediol (BDO) are: maleic anhydride method (Davy-McKee), butadiene-acetic acid method (Mitsubishi Chemical), propylene oxide method (Lyondell), Reppe method, etc. Among these methods, only the Reppe process has achieved rapid development in China, with capacity far exceeding that of other petrochemical feedstock methods, because China has abundant mineral resources (e.g., coal and calcium carbide) where cheap feedstock is available for the production of 1,4-butanediol. There are three key steps in the production of 1, 4-butynediol by the Reppe method (methanol oxidation, alkynylation of formaldehyde and acetylene, and hydrogenation of 1, 4-butynediol). In recent years, Chinese enterprises have continuously explored and optimized these technologies introduced from abroad, and made some progress in process, equipment, catalyst, environmental protection and other related application technologies, which has promoted the technological progress of the industry. The latest statistical analysis is made on the application and market status of Reppe process for 1,4-butanediol production in China, and some opinions are put forward for the development of enterprises and 1,4-butanediol industry in the future, hoping to provide meaningful reference for the development of industry.