Early View e70021
Review

Recent Advances in Catalyst Development for Enhanced p-Xylene Production via Toluene Methylation

Kanchan Guru

Kanchan Guru

Department of Chemistry, Solar Energy Conversion and Nanomaterials Laboratory, Manipal University Jaipur, Dehmi Kalan, Near GVK Toll Plaza, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 303007 India

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Nandana Chakinala

Nandana Chakinala

Department of Chemical Engineering, Chemical Reaction Engineering Laboratory, Manipal University Jaipur, Dehmi Kalan, Near GVK Toll Plaza, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 303007 India

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Anand G. Chakinala

Corresponding Author

Anand G. Chakinala

Department of Chemical Engineering, Chemical Reaction Engineering Laboratory, Manipal University Jaipur, Dehmi Kalan, Near GVK Toll Plaza, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 303007 India

E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]

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Praveen K. Surolia

Corresponding Author

Praveen K. Surolia

Department of Chemistry, Solar Energy Conversion and Nanomaterials Laboratory, Manipal University Jaipur, Dehmi Kalan, Near GVK Toll Plaza, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 303007 India

E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]

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First published: 28 June 2025

Abstract

p-Xylene is a key industrial chemical with increasing demand due to the shift in global markets toward petrochemicals. Although most p-xylene is currently produced through naphtha cracking or naphtha reforming, alternative and cost-effective manufacturing techniques are needed. Catalytic methylation of toluene using shape selective catalysts is a potential route to yield xylenes with great para selectivity. Recent research has focused on modifying catalysts to increase surface acidity, pore channels, and crystallinity, improving para selectivity and toluene conversion. However, challenges remain in designing effective shape selective catalysts without sacrificing catalytic activity and maximizing methanol utilization for increased p-xylene productivity. This review discusses recent developments in catalyst design and modification strategies for improved shape selectivity, including the influence of reaction conditions, kinetics, mechanism, and catalyst deactivation. The review concludes with a forward-looking perspective on developing, designing, and modifying catalysts to address gaps in the related research field.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Data Availability Statement

There are no data to disclose.

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