Abstract: The present invention provides an improved hydrogenation processes wherein heat is efficiently managed so that catalyst productivity is optimized. More particularly, in the processes of the present invention, a nonaqueous solvent is added to a reactant to provide a nonaqueous solvent/reactant mixture that can act as a heat sink and absorb at least a portion of the heat generated within the reactor. Desirably, a reaction product, or a solvent with a minimal number of hydroxyl groups, is utilized so that the formation of unwanted byproducts can be minimized.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for producing low color glycols that comprises altering at least one condition of a reaction component and/or process stream within the process to be unfavorable for the formation of at least one color-producing contaminant intermediate. As such, such intermediates may be reduced in concentration, or even eliminated entirely, from glycols produced by the process. Since they are not present, or are present in reduced number, the intermediates cannot form color-producing contaminants in the glycols, and low color glycols are provided to the customer. Any condition that can discourage the formation of color forming contaminant intermediates can be adjusted, although conditions that can be adjusted by materials or equipment already utilized in the process, e.g.

Abstract: The present invention provides one-step processes for the production of chlorinated and/or fluorinated propenes. The processes provide good product yield with low, e.g., less than about 20%, or even less than 10%, concentrations of residues/by-products. Advantageously, the processes may be conducted at low temperatures relative to conventional processes, so that energy savings are provided, and/or at higher pressures so that high throughputs may also be realized. The use of catalysts may provide enhancements to conversion rates and selectivity over those seen in conventional processes, as may adjustments to the molar ratio of the reactants.

Abstract: A method for enhancing the efficiency of a rhenium-promoted epoxidation catalyst is provided. Advantageously, the method may be carried out in situ, i.e., within the epoxidation process, and in fact, may be carried out during production of the desired epoxide. As such, a method for the epoxidation of alkylenes incorporating the efficiency-enhancing method is also provided, as is a method for using the alkylene oxides so produced for the production of 1,2-diols, 1,2-carbonates, 1,2-diol ethers, or alkanolamines.