Uncatalyzed partial oxidation of p-xylene in sub- and supercritical water

Abstract

In sub- and supercritical water, partial oxidation of p-xylene was performed in a batch reactor without a catalyst at 240-500degreesC, 220-300 bar. The loaded amount of hydrogen peroxide was set to 0-100% of the theoretically required oxygen amount. Conversion of p-xylene was reached over 99% within 15-20 min. In sub- and supercritical water, we propose two parallel pathways and major products that consist of p-tolualdehyde, p-toluic acid, terephthalic acid, toluene and benzaldehyde. Yields of major products in subcritical conditions were higher than in a supercritical conditions.