The direct hydration reaction is conducted at temperatures ranging from 500 to 600 F., preferably at temperatures varying from 520' to 540 F. Preferably, the reaction zone pressure is maintained at the highest level possible without causing condensation of the water vapor present at the conditions prevailing within the reaction zone. Typically, reaction zone pressures vary from 800 to 1,100 psig, most preferably about 1,000-1,050 psig are employed. The vaporized ethylene and water are introduced into the reactor, preferably a fixed bed reactor, at a vapor space velocity of about 10 to 60 standard cubic feet of total ethylene and water vapor per cubic foot of catalyst per minute where standard gas conditions are understood to be l atmosphere and 60F. However, it is preferred that the reaction zone space velocity be maintained at a level varying between 25 and 35 standard cubic feet of ethylene and water vapor per cubic foot of catalyst per minute.
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