Superacid Catalysis: Direct Esterification of Turpentine Oil with Acetic Acid

Author(s)

Mendonca, Barbara Silva ; Marques, Isabel Oliveira ; Pena, Jesus Marcelo ; Cella, Rodrigo

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CHEMICAL ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY; v. 45, n. 5, p. 6-pg., 2022-04-05.

Abstract

Terpenyl acetate, which is used for the production of flavors and fragrances, is industrially prepared from turpentine oil in a two-step process including hydration and catalytic esterification. Such processes have several shortcomings like too-large amounts of catalysts, non-recyclability of catalysts, long reaction times, and serious environmental pollution. Here, a direct one-step synthesis of terpenyl acetate from a feed mixture of turpentine oil and acetic acid with fluoroantimonic acid as superacid catalyst is described. Only 0.2 mol % of catalyst is necessary for up to 96 % conversion of starting material at room temperature. The desired product was obtained with a selectivity of up to 60 %. Thus, a clean and environmentally friendly strategy for synthesizing alpha-terpenyl acetate is provided. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 18/10128-8 - Ultrasound waves as energy source in process of adding value to biomass
• Grantee: Rodrigo Cella
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants