Abstract: A process is provided for the disproportionation of a toluene feed stock that includes using an unconventionally low hydrogen to toluene mole ratio during reaction start-up, i.e., until the production of non-aromatics begins to stabilize; thereafter the ratio is increased. Reducing the hydrogen content at the beginning of the reaction substantially lessens any hydrogenation activity, thereby gaining optimum selectivities to benzene at a much sooner rate than that achieved using more conventional hydrogen to toluene ratios. The post start-up increase in hydrogen concentration following stabilized production of non-aromatics is generally believed to enhance the aging character of the catalyst, thereby preserving catalyst life. In practicing the invention, a reaction zone is established loading a metal-modified mordenite catalyst into the reaction zone. A toluene containing feed stock is continuously supplied to the reaction zone.

Abstract: In accordance with the the present invention, there is provided a process for the conversion of aromatic hydrocarbons including benzene to hydrocarbon components comprising primarily toluene. According to the invention, a catalyst reaction zone is established having a metal-loaded mordenite catalyst. A mixed feedstock of aromatic hydrocarbons, including benzene, xylene(s) and, optionally, ethylbenzene is introduced into the reaction zone and hydrogen is used as a cofeed to provide a reductive environment. The feedstock is contacted with the metal-loaded mordenite catalyst and the conversion of the aromatic hydrocarbon components is conducted under temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to effect the conversion of the feedstock to hydrocarbon components containing primarily toluene. Finally, the conversion product containing primarily toluene is recovered from the reaction zone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a stable, highly active and selective modified omega zeolite, and its preparation and use in toluene disproportionation.