NEW PROCESS FOR THE SYNTHESIS OF 2,3,3,3-TETRAFLUOROPROPENE (1234YF) AND 2,3-DICHLORO-1,1,1-TRIFLUOROPROPANE (243DB)

The present invention pertains to a novel process of manufacturing the compound 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (1234yf). The compound 1234yf is the newest refrigerant with zero OPD (Ozone Depleting Potential) and zero GWP (Global Warming Potential). Thus, the invention relates to a process, involving a carbine generation route, for the manufacture of the compound 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (1234yf), of the compound 243db (2,3-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoropropane), and optionally of the compound 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoropropene (1233xf) via carbene route and compound 243db (2,3-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoropropane). The invention also relates to a process for the manufacture of the compound 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (1234yf), wherein the compound 243db (2,3-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoropropane) serves as a starting material, for the manufacture of the compound 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (1234yf). Further, the invention relates to a process for the manufacture of the compound 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (1234yf), and of the compound 243db (2,3-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoropropane), wherein the initial starting materials are selected from the group consisting of compound 123 (2,2-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane), compound 124 (2-chloro-1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane), and compound 125 (pentafluoroethane). The compound 123 (2,2-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane is preferred as the initial starting material. In particular, the process of the invention involves a carbene generation step, and wherein the carbene formed is further reacted towards the targeted compounds of the invention, especially towards the compound 243db (2,3-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoropropane), and finally towards the compound 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (1234yf).