Direct Synthesis of Methylchlorosilanes: Catalysts, Mechanisms, Reaction Conditions, and Reactor Designs

Silicone polymers are produced commercially mainly from methylchlorosilanes prepared by direct synthesis. The yield and selectivity of this synthetic process depend not only on chemical reactions but also on transfer phenomena, leading to conflicting results and controversial interpretations within this research field. This review highlights recent advances in synthesis mechanisms, including catalysts and promoters, especially the effect of process parameters and reactor form on the reactivity and selectivity of the reaction. This review shows that different catalysts and their structures and promoters lead to significant differences in reaction rates and product distributions. Process parameters such as feed gas velocity and composition, reaction temperature, reaction pressure, silica fume, etc., as well as synthesis reactor structure have influenced the reaction rate and yield distribution. Although there is some consensus on understanding the influence of operating parameters, synthesis reactor structure, and reaction kinematics, further studies are still needed to elucidate the catalytic mechanism and synergistic mechanism between the reaction and transfer processes. It also reviews recent trends in these response characteristics in previously reported studies and offers important directions for future research in this field.