Trivalent Titanium Catalyst Preparation for Olefin Polymerization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing olefin polymerization catalysts are inefficient and costly, particularly in applying titanium to catalysts from aqueous solutions due to limitations in Ti4+ chemistry, which hinders the formation of catalytically active species.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of trivalent titanium compounds, such as TiCl3, Ti2(SO4)3, or Ti(+3) oxylate, in combination with chromium-containing compounds, is used to prepare catalysts by contacting a support, such as silica, to increase titanium dispersion and form active polymerization sites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If Ti4+ compounds are used to prepare catalysts from aqueous solutions, then the catalyst preparation can be performed, but titanium dispersion is poor and formation of catalytically active species is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the oxidation state parameter of titanium from Ti4+ to Ti3+. This parameter change enables better dispersion of titanium on the support and facilitates the formation of catalytically active species. The Ti3+ compounds react differently with the support surface, creating more uniform distribution and active sites for polymerization.
2Productivity
If conventional catalyst preparation methods are used, then the process is established, but production costs are high and efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the chemical parameter of titanium from tetravalent (Ti4+) to trivalent (Ti3+), which fundamentally alters the preparation process. This parameter change leads to improved titanium dispersion and higher catalyst activity, thereby increasing polymerization efficiency and productivity while potentially reducing production costs through better material utilization.
3Manufacturing precision
If Ti3+ compounds are used instead of Ti4+, then titanium dispersion increases and active species form better, but the chemistry becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter change by switching from Ti4+ to Ti3+ chemistry. While this introduces different chemical behavior, it simplifies the overall process by enabling direct aqueous solution preparation without requiring complex additional steps to achieve good dispersion and activity. The Ti3+ chemistry naturally favors the desired outcomes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach results in higher activity catalysts with increased titanium incorporation, leading to polymers with higher melt index, broader molecular weight distribution, and improved polymerization efficiency, effectively overcoming the limitations of previous methods.
Implementation Method 1
contacting a support with a trivalent titanium compound and a chromium-containing compound... to increase titanium dispersion
Implementation Method 2
catalyst compositions... function to catalyze the polymerization of olefins
Data Source
AI summary
A method of preparing a catalyst comprising contacting a support with a trivalent titanium compound and a chromium-containing compound. A catalyst composition comprising a support, chromium, and titanium, wherein the titanium is derived from TiCl3, Ti2(SO4)3, Ti(OAc)3, Ti(+3) oxylate, Ti(NO3)3, Ti(+3) lactate or combinations thereof.