1. Background
ε-caprolactone monomer is a useful chemical intermediate and can also be used as a strong solvent. Polycaprolactone (PCL) is widely used in the synthesis of environmentally friendly materials (degradable plastics).
![Synthesis of ε-caprolactone]( "Synthesis of ε-caprolactone")
2. Process
Dimethyl adipate (DMA) was firstly prepared by continuous esterification from adipate (AA) and then hydrogenated to 1, 6-hexanediol (HDO). ε-caprolactone is a by-product. Because of its high value, we can get high value-added by-products by distillation separation.