Methane is used as the selective dehydrating agent for the production of
2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-1-propene (R1234yf) from 2,2,3,3,3-pentafluoro-1-propanol.
Supported transition metal catalysts are prepared and used for this reaction with
high activity. Almost 58% selectivity to R1234yf is obtained at an alcohol conversion
level of 60% using unsupported Ni-mesh as the catalyst. Pd and Pt show almost similar
level of conversion; however, the selectivity to the desired product is low. The
activity of the metal catalyst was found to be a function of the type of support
material, activated carbon showing better activity than alumina. Different important
process parameters such as temperature, pressure, and contact time are studied
to optimize the process. High pressure and temperature are deleterious to the rate
of 1234yf formation; yet, the highest yield to 1234yf is obtained while performing
a reaction at 494 C. with a contact time of 23 sec.