ALKYLATION/TRANSALKYLATION PROCESS FOR SELECTIVE PRODUCTION OF MONOALKYLATED AROMATICS

An alkylation-transalkylation process for the selective production of a monoalkylated aromatic compound is disclosed which maximizes the production of desirable monoalkylaromatic compounds, while limiting transalkylation catalyst deactivation. The process entails the combination of an alkylation reaction step, a first separation step, a second separation step, and a transalkylation reaction step wherein the alkylation catalyst is comprised of phosphoric acid material and the transalkylation catalyst is comprised of a crystalline aluminosilicate material. A key feature involves reducing transalkylation catalyst deactivation by transalkylating only dialkylated aromatic compounds.