Ethylenoxidverfahren

The Ethylenoxidverfahren, also known as the ethylene oxide process, is a chemical reaction primarily used for the production of ethylene oxide. This process involves the direct oxidation of ethylene with oxygen or air over a silver catalyst. The reaction is typically carried out at elevated temperatures and pressures. The primary products are ethylene oxide and carbon dioxide, along with water. The reaction is exothermic, and careful temperature control is crucial to prevent runaway reactions and maximize selectivity to ethylene oxide. The overall reaction can be represented as 2 C2H4 + O2 -> 2 C2H4O. A competing reaction leads to the complete combustion of ethylene to carbon dioxide and water: C2H4 + 3 O2 -> 2 CO2 + 2 H2O. The selectivity towards ethylene oxide is a key parameter in the efficiency of the process and is influenced by catalyst composition, reaction temperature, and the ratio of reactants. Ethylene oxide is a highly reactive intermediate used in the production of a wide range of chemicals, including ethylene glycol, surfactants, and ethanolamines. Due to its reactivity and flammability, the handling and processing of ethylene oxide require stringent safety measures.