Thermodynamic calculations for the synthesis of n ‐butanol and other high‐carbon alcohols from ethanol

Based on the components of the reaction system for the catalytic conversion of ethanol to n ‐butanol and other high‐carbon alcohols, we analyze the reactions that might occur within the system. The temperature‐dependent changes in the standard enthalpy of formation and standard Gibbs free energy for each reaction in the system are determined. The overall reactions from ethanol to n ‐butanol and other high alcohols are exothermic, and the Gibbs free energies of the reactions are negative. Equilibrium composition calculations are performed for specific systems, and the results indicate that pressure has no significant effect on the mixture composition and that the formation of high‐carbon alcohols is favored.