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).