Catalyst for 2-Ethylanthraquinone Hydrogenation
The hydrogenation of 2-ethylanthraquinone is a crucial step in the production of hydrogen peroxide via the anthraquinone process. This step involves the reduction of 2-ethylanthraquinone to 2-ethylanthrahydroquinone in the presence of hydrogen and a suitable catalyst. The reduced compound is subsequently oxidized to produce hydrogen peroxide.
A highly selective hydrogenation catalyst, typically based on Pd, is used to ensure the selective hydrogenation of a solution of 2-ethylanthraquinone dissolved in an organic solvent, without over-reducing the aromatic ring. The hydrogenation is conducted in a reactor, usually a fixed-bed or slurry reactor.