H-Beta zeolite for acylation processes: optimization of the catalyst properties and reaction conditions

Beta zeolite has been optimized for acylation processes. In the acylation of toluene and m-xylene with acetic anhydride Beta samples of low Si/Al framework ratio and nanocrystals show improved activity and slower deactivation. In the acylation of 2-methoxynaphthalene with acetic anhydride the selective dealumination of the external surface of a nanocrystalline Beta enhances the shape selectivity of the zeolite, increasing the selectivity to the less sterically hindered 2-acetyl-6-methoxinaphthalene. Finally, the control of the process conditions is vital in the case of the acylation with carboxylic acids. Water from the liquid phase should be removed to avoid side reactions that decrease the quality of the final product.