Catalytic pyrolysis of methyl chloride for ethylene and propylene production

Ethylene and propylene production via the catalytic pyrolysis of methyl chloride was studied over zeolite catalyst TsVM (the Russian analogue of ZSM-5) and silicoaluminophosphate catalyst SAPO-34. SAPO-34 is more efficient in light olefin (in particular, ethylene and propylene) formation; this catalyst provides 55–60% methyl chloride conversion at 400 and 450°C and a contact time of 3 s with the 80–85% ethylene + propylene selectivity. The ethylene selectivity at 450°C is 15% higher than at 400°C. The reaction rate for methyl chloride conversion over SAPO-34 is described by a first-order equation. The catalyst gradually loses activity during methyl chloride conversion as a result of carbonization but recovers it completely after regeneration in air at 500°C. The catalyst can be recommended for further pilot-scale testing.