Design of plant for the production of 72000 tonnes/ year of 2- ethylhexanol from propylene and synthesis gas

Thesis Abstract

2-Ethylhexanol (2-EH) is a clear, colourless liquid with a characteristic odour, which has

been described as sweet and floral (Genium, 1999; WHO, 1993) and as intense andunpleasant (HSDB, 2004; Verschueren, 2001). This compound occurs naturally in food(e.g., corn, olive oil, tobacco, tea, rice, apricots, plums, apples, nectarines, tamarind grapes,and blueberries) and is also used as a flavor additive in foods (WHO, 1993). In theatmosphere, 2-ethylhexanol occurs as a vapor. This compound is combustible and willreact violently with oxidizing materials and strong acids. 2-Ethylhexanol is soluble inorganic solvents but only moderately soluble in water.The chemical formula, structure, registry numbers, synonyms and trade names for 2-ethylhexanol are provided in Table 1 (NIST, 2003).