Make natural detergent alcohols efficiently, reliably and profitably with Johnson Matthey's technology

Esterification of fatty acids to methyl esters

JM’s natural detergent alcohol production process begins with the esterification of natural fatty acids into methyl esters.

Our esterification technology minimises your feedstock use as it achieves almost complete conversion of the acids into esters. It uses a highly selective, and easy to manage heterogeneous catalyst in a reactive distillation system. The reaction column includes a smart system that allows on-line replacement of the catalyst with no loss of production, increasing uptime.

In addition, the esterification step creates a non-acidic downstream environment, enabling the use of low-cost carbon steel and saving on CAPEX.

Hydrogenation of methyl esters 

The methyl esters are then hydrogenated in the vapour phase using a heterogeneous, low-cost, base metal catalyst. 

JM’s natural detergent alcohols production technology leverages our vapour-phase hydrogenation loop, which creates less by-product and is inherently safer to operate than liquid-phase hydrogenation loops. It enables low pressure operation, eliminates hot-spots and it can be easily and quickly put in a safe condition.  Its features also result in increased catalyst lifespan and performance, meaning that the catalyst delivers high conversion for many years before it needs to be replaced.