The conversion of methanol and other O-compounds to hydrocarbons over zeolite catalysts

The conversion of methanol and other O-compounds to C2C10 hydrocarbons using a new class of shape-selective zeolites is reported. Methanol, dimethyl ether, or an equilibrium mixture thereof appears to be converted in a first reaction sequence to olefins predominantly in the C2C5 range. In the final steps of the reaction path, the C2C5 olefins are converted to paraffins, aromatics, cycloparaffins and C6+ olefins. The final hydrocarbons are largely in the gasoline (C4C10) boiling range. The thermochemistry of the methanol to hydrocarbon reaction is described and possible reaction mechanisms are discussed.