Abstract: A process for improving the color of oxygenates, such as MTBE, ETBE and TAME, which utilizes a hydrogenation treater in the presence of a catalyst, containing at least one noble metal, along with a circulation of hydrogen to remove the color. The process reduces existing color bodies in the oxygenate and may proceed at room temperature and at normal pressure for economically providing a completely clear product having a +30 saybolt number.

Abstract: A method for improving the conversion of isobutylene in the MTBE reaction process while simultaneously producing a substantially methanol-free MTBE utilizes an increased methanol to isobutylene molar ratio in the reaction process and methanol-free C4 hydrocarbons as reflux. The use of a methanol-free C4 hydrocarbon stream as reflux eliminates the excess methanol generated by increasing the methanol to isobutylene molar ratio without requiring a higher reflux ratio or changing operating conditions. The method permits isobutylene conversion of more than 98% while producing a purified MTBE with less than 0.5% methanol content.