Selective methylation catalyst, method of catalyst manufacture and methylation process

Novel catalysts and processes in accordance with the invention can accomplish high selectivity and conversion of naphthalenic compounds such as the conversion of methylnaphthalene (2-MN) or naphthalene to 2,6-dimethylnaphthalene (2,6-DMN). The catalysts are prepared by treating, for example, a ZSM-5-type material with iron in the presence of a halogen such as a fluoride. The resulting catalyst includes iron, as well as a significant portion of aluminum present in the ZSM-5-type starting material. Processes for using the catalysts also are disclosed.