page_title: Transalkylation
section_title: Disproportionation
hierarchical_section_title: Transalkylation / Disproportionation
caption_attribution_description: English: Reaction of toluene to produce benzene and xylene
context_page_description: Transalkylation is a chemical reaction involving the transfer of an alkyl group from one organic compound to another. The reaction is used for the transfer of methyl and ethyl groups between benzene rings. This is of particular value in the petrochemical industry to manufacture p-xylene, styrene, and other aromatic compounds. Motivation for using transalkylation reactions is based on a difference in production and demand for benzene, toluene, and xylenes. Transalkylation can convert toluene, which is overproduced, into benzene and xylene, which are under-produced. Zeolites are often used as catalysts in transalkylation reactions.
context_section_description: Transalkylation, as used by the petrochemical industry, is often used to convert toluene into benzene and xylenes. This is achieved through a disproportionation reaction of toluene in which one toluene molecule transfers its methyl group to another one. The reaction is not selective, and the xylene produced can be ortho, meta, or para. There is a higher demand for para xylene, so it is often separated, and the mixture is allowed to reequilibrate to give more para product.
caption: Reaction of toluene to produce benzene and xylene
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