FIELD: industrial organic synthesis. SUBSTANCE: multistage process is conducted in reactors with several in-series connected adiabatic catalytic layers. Gaseous reagents containing methanol and excess oxygen are fed into the first catalytic layer and then passed through adiabatic catalytic layers to achieve partial oxidation of methanol, at least one of layers being passed by regents in radial direction. Reactor for this process is also described. EFFECT: increased productivity of process, reduced explosion hazard, and reduced power consumption. 15 cl, 2 dwg
