Acrylic Monomer Process Technology Evolution from Reppe to Renewables

This talk surveys the evolution of acrylic monomer technology from its origins in the early 20th century through the newest processes being developed today based on industrial biotechnology. First-generation acrylate technology was based on the Reppe process, using acetylene as a key intermediate and a nickel carbonyl catalyst to enable monomer synthesis. In the 1970's, environmental and operational challenges drove development of second-generation technology based on the two-stage conversion of propylene to acrylic acid over mixed metal oxide catalysts. As that technology enters its fourth decade, research focuses on new approaches that are both economical and sustainable. Acrylate manufacturers likely face a choice between continuing to exploit petroleum-based sources, for example via the partial oxidation of propane, or converting to new approaches using renewable feedstocks. Each option raises a series of technical, operational and ethical questions, which will be discussed in this presentation.