Catalytic synthesis of methanethiol from methanol from hydrogen sulfide

The mechanisms of the reaction between methanol and H 2 S at 320-500 o C in the presence of aluminum oxide that is modified with alkali metal compounds have been studied. L sites and basic sites occur on the surface of the catalysts. The acidity of Al 2 O 3 is reduced with the addition of sodium or potassium hydroxide and carbonate while the basicity is increased compared to an alumopotassium-tungsten catalyst. In terms of their overall activity the hydroxide and carbonate samples are superior to the tungstate sample while in terms of selectivity towards the formation of methanethiol they are inferior to the latter