Catalyst Oxidation of 2-Chloro-4-methylsulfonyl-toluene in Liquid-phase

2-Chloro-4-methylsulfonyl benzoic acid was prepared from 2-chloro-4-methylsulfonyl toluene in acetic acid through liquid-phase catalytic oxidation using Amoco catalyst. Effects of temperature, pressure, reaction time, water content and concentration of the reaction substrate on the liquid-phase catalytic oxidation were studied. The optimal conditions for this reaction were found as follows: reaction temperature 150-160 °C, pressure 0.7-1.0 MPa, reaction time 50-60 mins, weight of water in reaction under 10%, concentration of the reaction substrate 14%. Under the optimal conditions, the yield was more than 90% at a conversation level of 98%, and more than 70% isolated yield was achieved.