Mechanistic Aspects of the Zeolite Catalyzed Methylation of Alkenes and Aromatics with Methanol: A Review

Alkylation and methylation are important reactions in industrial zeolite catalyzed hydrocarbon transformation processes. This contribution compiles the present knowledge concerning the reaction mechanism of zeolite catalyzed methylation of alkenes and aromatics, based on insights obtained using spectroscopy, quantum chemistry, and kinetic measurements. A central issue is to discuss the potential role surface bound methoxy group intermediates.