Condensation of Carboxylic Acids by Base Catalysts

Organic acids which are produced by fermentation of sugars, starches, or hydrolyzed cellulosic materials compose a major class of renewable-resource feedstock chemicals that can replace traditional petroleum-derived materials. The condensation of such carboxylic acids to ketones has long been known as a useful route to value-added chemicals. This work expands on previously published studies of monocarboxylic acids and esters to symmetric and asymmetric ketones to include novel, heterogeneous catalysts and dicarboxylic acids as starting materials. Thus, the development of the novel route for the production of cyclic ketones from using solid base catalysts is described. The activity, selectivity and reusability of the catalyst, as well as mechanistic implications of the reaction will be discussed. The ketone products have potential uses as high energy-density biofuel components and commodity and specialty chemicals from renewable biofeedstocks.