anthraquinoneproces

The anthraquinone process is an industrial method for producing hydrogen peroxide by a cyclic redox system based on an anthraquinone derivative. The process uses a soluble substituted anthraquinone to shuttle oxygen between hydrogen and air, enabling hydrogen peroxide to form in an aqueous phase while the organic solventCycle.

In operation, the anthraquinone derivative is hydrogenated to a hydroanthraquinone form using hydrogen and a suitable catalyst in an organic solvent. The hydroanthraquinone is then oxidized by air, regenerating the original anthraquinone and generating hydrogen peroxide in the aqueous phase. The organic layer is recycled, while the hydrogen peroxide-containing water is separated and purified or concentrated. The cycle typically operates with a continuous loop of reduction, oxidation, and separation, allowing large-scale production.

The process commonly employs substituted anthraquinones, such as 2-alkylated derivatives, chosen for favorable redox properties, solubility, and stability. The system requires careful control of reaction conditions, catalysts, solvent losses, and impurity management to maintain efficiency and catalyst longevity. Environmental and safety considerations focus on solvent management, handling of hydrogen and oxygen-rich streams, and proper recovery of hydrogen peroxide.

The anthraquinone process is the dominant method for industrial hydrogen peroxide production worldwide, favored for its scalability, high selectivity, and ability to produce concentrated H2O2 without direct combustion or electrolysis. Its development in the early to mid-20th century, notably by major chemical companies, led to widespread adoption and ongoing refinements in catalyst chemistry and process integration.