What is the primary industrial process of producing phenol worldwide, and what is the intermediate used in this process?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Cumene process, cumene hydroperoxide

• The Cumene process is the most widely used industrial method for producing phenol.

• In this process, cumene (isopropylbenzene) is first oxidized to cumene hydroperoxide. This compound is then cleaved to produce phenol and acetone as byproducts.

• The intermediate in this process is cumene hydroperoxide, which is formed from cumene in the presence of air and then further reacted to yield phenol.

• This process is the most common worldwide due to its efficiency and the commercial value of the byproducts.

Information Booster:
• Phenol Production: The Cumene process accounts for the majority of global phenol production, providing both phenol and acetone, which are used in a variety of industries, including plastics, pharmaceuticals, and resins.
• Cumene: Cumene is derived from benzene and propylene and is the key starting material in the Cumene process.
• Alternate Methods: Other methods like the Dow process and Raschig process are used but are less common compared to the Cumene process. The Hock process is another historical method that is now largely outdated.
• Market Applications: Phenol is widely used in the production of bisphenol-A, resins, and pharmaceuticals, making its efficient production crucial for various industries.