Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of catalyzing etherification, esterification, hydration, ether cleavage, isomerization alkylation, or other reactions which are catalyzable with an acid or molecular sieve catalyst. Said reactions are conducted using a novel, dual functional catalyst prepared with active components and a small amount of binder, wherein said dual functional catalyst comprises cylindrical pellets which are molded such that a cross-section or each pellet has a window lattice shape with external teeth, or a star shape with inner spokes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dual functional catalyst having both the catalytic reaction function and fractionation function and a catalytic distillation equipment for packing the catalyst therein. Said catalyst has a special shape and can be packed at random into the reaction section of said equipment. So, there exist adequate free spaces inside pellet and between pellets, enabling the vapor and liquid streams to pass through the catalyst beds directly and countercurrently, and contact with the dual functional catalyst directly. The reaction between the reactants and fractionation of products can be carried out simultaneously. Thus a high reaction efficiency is achieved. No special inner part is needed in the reaction section to pack the catalysts, so the structure of the equipment is simple and easy to operate, and the investment and cost of operation are low.