Highly regioselective dinitration of toluene over zeolite H-beta

Journal Article

Smith, K. . 2013

• Publication Work Type: Research
• Magazine \ Newspaper: Journal of Catalysis
• Issue Number: 1
• Volume Number: 297
• Pages: 244–247

Publication Abstract

A nitration system comprising nitric acid, propanoic anhydride and zeolite Hb has been developed for dinitration of toluene to give 2,4-dinitrotoluene in 98% yield, with a 2,4-:2,6‑dinitrotoluene ratio of over 120. This represents the most selective quantitative method for 2,4‑dinitration of toluene; the catalyst is re-usable, solvent is not needed and an aqueous work-up is not required.