In the catalytic oxidation process, ethylene is mixed with oxygen and passed over a silver catalyst at elevated temperatures (200-300°C) and pressures (1-3 MPa). The silver catalyst promotes the adsorption of ethylene and oxygen, facilitating their reaction to form ethylene oxide. The overall reaction can be represented as: C₂H₄ + ½ O₂ → C₂H₄O However, complete combustion to carbon dioxide and water is a competing side reaction: C₂H₄ + 3 O₂ → 2 CO₂ + 2 H₂O The selectivity of the catalyst is crucial to minimize these side reactions and maximize the yield of EO.
