Synthesis of Acetic Acid (Monsanto Process)

CH3OH + CO → CH3COOH

Overview

Methanol reacts with carbon monoxide in the presence of a rhodium-iodide catalyst to form acetic acid. The Monsanto process (and its successor, the Cativa process using iridium) is the dominant industrial method for acetic acid production.

Participants

Role Substance Coefficient State
Reactant Methanol CH₃OH 1 (l)
Reactant Carbon Monoxide CO 1 (g)
Product Acetic Acid CH₃COOH 1 (l)

Everyday Example

White vinegar contains approximately 5% acetic acid, though commercial vinegar is typically produced by fermentation rather than this industrial process.

Industrial Importance

Over 16 million tonnes of acetic acid are produced annually using this process. Acetic acid is used to make vinyl acetate, acetic anhydride, cellulose acetate, and as a solvent.

Properties

Type
Synthesis
Reversible
No
Energy
Exothermic
ΔH
-138.6 kJ/mol
Catalyst
Rhodium/iodide complex

Related Reactions

Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General) Formation of Aluminum Oxide Formation of Ammonia (Haber Process) Formation of Barium Oxide Formation of Barium Sulfate Formation of Beryllium Oxide Formation of Cadmium Oxide Formation of Calcium Carbonate from Oxides Formation of Calcium Hydroxide Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Synthesis of Acetic Acid (Monsanto Process)?
The balanced equation is: CH₃OH + CO → CH₃COOH.
What type of reaction is Synthesis of Acetic Acid (Monsanto Process)?
Synthesis of Acetic Acid (Monsanto Process) is a synthesis reaction.
Is Synthesis of Acetic Acid (Monsanto Process) exothermic or endothermic?
Synthesis of Acetic Acid (Monsanto Process) is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -138.6 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Synthesis of Acetic Acid (Monsanto Process)?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Rhodium/iodide complex).