Catalytic synthesis of di(2-ethylhexyl)(-o-)phthalate by rare earth solid superacid SO_4~(2-)/TiO_2/La~(3+)

The synthesis of di(2-ethylhexyl)(-o-)phthalate from phthalic anhydride and 2-ethyl hexanol over rare earth solid superacid SO_4~(2-)/TiO_2/La~(3+) catalyst is studied. The influential factors of reaction are investigated.The results showed that the appropriate conditions were as follows: molar ratio of 2-ethyl hexanol to phthalic anhydride was 2.5∶1,the amount of catalyst was 5% of phthalic anhydride, reaction time was 2.5 h. The yield of esterification can reach 92.7%.