ESTIMATION OF THE ACTIVITY OF CATALYSTS AND THE REACTIVITY OF ORGANOSULFUR COMPOUNDS

The kinetics of hydrogenolysis of various classes of organosulfur compounds were studied in the presence of MeAlCl4 catalysts (Me = Li, Na, K). The reactions were conducted at 100-250-degrees-C without introduction of hydrogen into the reaction zone, but in the presence of hydrocarbons capable of acting as hydride-ion donors; these donors were necessary for H2S formation. A series of catalytic activities and optimal reaction conditions for each catalyst were determined from the rate constants of hydrogenolysis at the C-S bond. Reactivities of mercaptans, sulfides, disulfides, and thiophene were estimated.