Synthesis of benzaldehyde, a possible route to toluene

✍ Scribed by Hardy, D. V. N.

• Book ID: 102888528
• Publisher: Wiley (John Wiley & Sons)
• Year: 1948
• Weight: 750 KB
• Volume: 67
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0368-4075
• DOI: 10.1002/jctb.5000670408

✦ Synopsis

Abstract

The synthesis of benzaldehyde from benzene and carbon monoxide under pressure has been examined with a view its use for the production of toluene. With reference to the aluminium chloride used, the yield of benzaldehyde may reach 85%, but it was found impossible to recover the chloride. Attempts to find an alternative catalyst were unsuccessful. The factors governing the synthesis have been studied and it has been shown that the rate of reaction may be accelerated by adding not only benzaldehyde but also furfural and diethyl ether. The reaction is also accelerated by hydrogen chloride and by small amounts of water, but use of the latter leads to a smaller yield. The mechanism of the reaction is discussed.