Abstract: A process for selective removal of hydroxyl groups from phenolic compounds is disclosed. The process uses a combination of catalytic hydrodeoxygenation and catalytic direct deoxygenation to convert alkylphenols into alkylbenzenes.

Abstract: This invention concerns a process and an apparatus for producing ether and the use of a dimerised reaction product as the olefinic feedstock in etherification. According to the present process alcohol and C8-C12 olefin(s) are fed to a first reaction zone (21-25) comprising at least one reactor, the olefin(s) and alcohol are subjected to an etherification reaction in the presence of an acidic catalyst. The effluent from the first reaction zone (21-25) is fed to a fractionation zone (26). From the fractionation zone (26) is withdrawn a side-flow which is conducted either back to the first reaction zone (21-25) or to a second reaction zone. The effluent of the first reaction zone (21-25) or the second reaction zone is circulated back to the fractionation zone (26), and the ether is recovered from the fractionation zone (26).

Abstract: The present invention concerns a process for the etherification of olefins. According to the process, an olefin or a mixture of olefins is reacted with an alcohol or a mixture of alcohols in the presence of a catalyst. According to the invention, a catalyst is used which comprises a grafted polymer fiber, there being functional groups attached to the grafted polymer fiber. By means of the invention it is possible to speed up the etherification process of, in particular, heavier ethers.