22.1 Introduction

Phenol is one of the most important petrochemicals.  Ranging from solvents to polymers, phenol is required for several petrochemical processes as an important raw material.

Phenol can be produced from many sources such as

• • Cumene

• Toluene

• Benzene

Depending upon these raw materials, various chemical transformations and underlying physical principles apply.

In this lecture, we discuss upon the process technology associated to Phenol production from Cumene and Toluene.

22.2 Phenol production from Cumene

22.2.1 Reactions

• Peroxidation: Cumene + Air → Cumene Hydroperoxide.

Hydrolysis: Cumene Hydroperoxide + H₂SO₄ → Phenol + Acetone.

22.2.2 For Peroxidation

• • Aqueous emulsion is prepared using emulsification agents.

• Operating conditions: Normal T & P.

• Emusification agent: NaOH (Alkali).

22.2.3 For Hydrolysis

• • 10 – 25 % H₂SO₄ (Aqueous) is used.

• Operating conditions: 55 – 65°C and atmospheric pressure conditions.