Application of a Capillary Microreactor for Selective Hydrogenation of α,β-Unsaturated Aldehydes in Aqueous Multiphase Catalysis

The direct regioselective hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes in aqueous multiphase catalysis was investigated in a capillary microreactor. By connecting two mixers in line, a regular and stable alternating plug flow behavior could be generated, allowing accurate measurement of the plug geometry and hence the calculation of the specific surface area relevant for mass transport.