NOVEL MOLYBDENUM-BASED CATALYSTS FOR PROPYLENE GLYCOL PRODUCTION AND THEIR APPLICATION IN NATURAL GAS DEHYDRATION

This study presents a novel catalytic approach for the synthesis of glycols, particularly monopropylene glycol (MPG), which is widely applied as a dehydrating agent in natural gas treatment. A molybdenum-based catalyst was developed via a simplified one-step dissolution of ammonium paramolybdate (APM) in glycols, which represents an alternative to conventional multi-stage catalyst preparation routes. The catalytic performance was evaluated in the hydration of propylene oxide under laboratory conditions. Results demonstrated high selectivity for MPG formation, reduced by-product generation, and lower energy consumption compared to traditional methods. Recent literature emphasizes the increasing industrial demand for glycols and the importance of developing energy-efficient, selective catalysts. The findings contribute to advancing resource-saving glycol synthesis and demonstrate the potential for application in gas processing industries.