Process Development & Scale-Up of Novel Organosilicon Coupling Agent

A phase transfer catalyzed (PTC) reaction process was recently developed for a novel organosilane coupling agent. Using a geometrically similar lab reactor and similar mixing to the plant we developed and successfully scaled up the process. Understanding the rate limiting factors for this system was critical to optimizing reaction conditions. Mixing intensity, catalyst structure, and solvent selection were important considerations for scale up and overall efficiency of the process. The presence of trace polar protic species strongly influenced the reaction behavior, crystallization, and filtration performance.