Last updated: August 2, 2025
Introduction
Japan Patent JP2015164936, titled "Method for Producing a Monoalkylated Aromatic Compound," is a chemical innovation aimed at improving the selective alkylation process of aromatic compounds. As a key patent within its scope, understanding its claims, technical scope, and the broader patent landscape is essential for industry stakeholders involved in aromatic chemical synthesis, pharmaceutical intermediates, and related chemical manufacturing sectors. This analysis dissects the patent’s claims, evaluates its circuity, and contextualizes its position within the existing Japanese and global patent environment.
Patent Overview
JP2015164936 was filed by a Japanese entity on August 20, 2015, with publication released on October 7, 2015. The patent focuses on a process for monoalkylation of aromatic hydrocarbons utilizing specific reaction conditions or catalysts to favor mono-substitution, thereby avoiding polyalkylation, which often complicates downstream purification and product quality.
Key Aspects:
- The process improves selectivity for monoalkylated aromatic products.
- It employs particular catalysts, solvents, or reaction parameters to optimize yield.
- Addresses prior art deficiencies related to polyalkylation and overalkylation.
Scope of the Patent (Claims Analysis)
Claims Structure & Technical Scope
The patent's claims delineate the boundaries for legal protection, centered primarily around operational parameters such as catalyst composition, reaction conditions, and specific aromatic compounds. The claims can be categorized into two types:
- Independent Claims: Establish the core inventive concept—methods for monoalkylation with defined reaction conditions.
- Dependent Claims: Specify preferred embodiments, variations, or specific catalyst systems.
Sample of Key Claims:
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Claim 1 (Independent): A method comprising contacting an aromatic compound with an alkylating agent in the presence of a specific catalyst under defined temperature and acid concentration conditions to obtain a monoalkylated aromatic compound with high selectivity.
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Claim 2: The method of Claim 1, wherein the catalyst comprises a modified zeolite or metal oxide supported catalyst.
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Claim 3: The method of Claim 1, wherein the temperature ranges from 50°C to 150°C.
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Claim 4: The method of Claim 1, wherein the reaction solvent comprises acetic acid or sulfuric acid.
Patent Claims and Their Implications
The scope set forth by Claim 1 establishes a broad method applicable across multiple aromatic compounds (e.g., benzene, toluene, xylenes) and alkylating agents (e.g., alkyl halides, olefins). This suggests an overarching inventive concept—selective monoalkylation—rather than a narrow chemical-specific process.
Dependent claims narrowly specify catalyst types and conditions that purportedly enhance the method's efficiency, enabling the patent holder to protect specific process variants.
Coverage & Limitations
The claims are sufficiently broad to prevent competitors from using similar reaction conditions or catalysts to produce monoalkylated aromatics, but they are also specific enough to avoid overlap with prior art that uses different catalysts or processes.
The scope might face challenges if prior art demonstrates similar monoalkylation under analogous conditions, particularly if aromatic compounds or catalysts claimed are deemed obvious or generic.
Patent Landscape in Japan and Globally
Japanese Patent Landscape
The Japanese chemical patent landscape features active innovation in aromatic chemistry, driven by both domestic chemical firms (e.g., Sumitomo Chemical, Mitsubishi Chemical) and multinational corporations. Key prior art includes:
- JP2007230519: A process for alkylation of aromatics using zeolite catalysts.
- JP2004272512: Monoalkylation process emphasizing catalyst selectivity.
- JP2011173243: Catalytic alkylation using modified zeolitic materials.
JP2015164936 builds upon this lineage by refining catalyst choices and reaction conditions, aiming for higher selectivity and process efficiency.
Global Patent Context
In the global sphere, similar processes are patented in the US (e.g., US patent US20110274740), Europe, and China, focusing on catalysts or reaction conditions for monoalkylation. The core inventive aspects—selective monoalkylation—are common themes, but the Japanese patent distinguishes itself by specific catalyst modifications or operational parameters relevant to local manufacturing practices.
Freedom-to-Operate (FTO) Considerations
- The patent’s claims overlap with prior art, but its specific catalyst compositions and process parameters may afford narrow FTO zones.
- Ongoing patent families focusing on catalysts may pose infringement risks; diligent freedom-to-operate analyses are advised before commercialization.
Inventive Features & Differentiation
- Catalyst Specificity: The patent claims refined catalyst systems, e.g., modified zeolites, which may not be obvious over prior art.
- Reaction Conditions: Use of narrow temperature ranges or specific solvents to enhance monoalkylation selectivity.
- Impurity Control & Yield Optimization: Emphasis on minimizing polyalkylation enhances process economics.
This positioning enhances the patent’s enforceability and commercial value as it addresses practical production challenges.
Legal & Commercial Significance
- The patent secures exclusive rights to a refined process for monoalkylation—valuable for manufacturers producing pharmaceuticals, dyes, and specialty chemicals.
- It limits competitors’ ability to employ similar catalysts or conditions without risking infringement.
- Its scope may influence licensing negotiations and R&D strategies in aromatic chemistry.
Conclusion
JP2015164936 delineates a method for selective monoalkylation of aromatic compounds, leveraging specific catalysts and reaction conditions. The claims are comprehensive yet specific, aiming to prevent circumvention through alternative catalysts or operational parameters. In the broad patent landscape, this patent provides a competitive advantage by protecting an optimized process, although prior art continues to challenge its scope, underscoring the need for ongoing patent monitoring.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s strength lies in its specific catalyst modifications and reaction parameters that aim to optimize monoalkylation selectivity.
- Its scope covers various aromatic compounds and alkylating agents, with claims designed to prevent infringement through minor process modifications.
- The patent fits into a competitive landscape with prior art, requiring strategic FTO assessments.
- Industry players should evaluate catalyst configurations and process conditions for potential infringement.
- Protecting and licensing this IP could provide a strategic edge in aromatic chemical manufacturing.
FAQs
1. What is the core innovation of JP2015164936?
The patent discloses a method for monoalkylation of aromatic compounds using specific catalysts and reaction conditions to increase selectivity and reduce overalkylation.
2. How does this patent compare to prior art?
It advances prior processes by specifically modifying catalysts—such as zeolites—and fine-tuning reaction environments, offering improved monoalkylation control.
3. Are the claims broad enough to cover multiple aromatic compounds?
Yes. The claims generally encompass various aromatic hydrocarbons like benzene, toluene, and xylenes, along with different alkylating agents.
4. Can this patent be easily circumvented?
Potentially, but only with alternative catalysts or conditions not covered explicitly in the claims. Similar processes employing different catalysts or reaction setups may avoid infringement.
5. What industries are affected by this patent?
Chemical manufacturing sectors producing pharmaceuticals, dyes, plastics, and other specialty chemicals derived from alkylated aromatics are impacted.
References
[1] Japanese Patent JP2015164936 - Exact patent documentation.
[2] Prior art references related to aromatic alkylation processes, particularly JP2007230519 and JP2004272512.
