Catalyst regeneration and solvent selection in oxidation reaction of phenol

The effects of water as solvent on phenol conversion and product selectivity have been investigated, and the regeneration method of the catalyst has been improved. By controlling the reaction parameters, the phenol conversions can be similar with either water or acetone as solvent. The maximum phenol conversion and hydrogen peroxide utilization ratio were obtained by adjusting the reaction temperature, water amount, hydrogen peroxide amount and adding methods. The calcination times of catalyst can be reduced by treating the coke deposited catalyst with high temperature water.