CATALYTIC C-C COUPLING OF FURFURAL AND ACETONE VIA ALDOL CONDENSATION REACTION
The urgent need to address environmental challenges associated with the extensive use of fossil fuels has driven the search for sustainable alternatives in energy and chemical production. Biomass derived feedstocks offer a renewable and eco-friendly solution, especially for the synthesis of platform molecules rich in oxygen containing functional groups. These molecules are particularly suitable for low temperature chemical transformations such as aldol condensation. This thesis explores the catalytic aldol condensation of furfural (a bio-derived aldehyde) and acetone (a bio-based ketone), focusing on their conversion into valuable C-C coupled products (C8 & C13). These condensation products hold potential as key intermediates in the synthesis of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), polymeric materials, and organic dyes. The reaction protocols were developed under the framework of Green Chemistry, emphasizing the use of environmentally benign solvents, avoidance of protecting groups, and employment of solid basic catalysts such as Mg-Al hydrotalcites and their derivatives. A continuous flow packed bed reactor system was established to carry out the condensation efficiently and selectively. The reaction mechanisms and catalyst behavior were systematically investigated using a range of spectroscopic and characterization techniques. Special attention was given to understanding the formation of intermediates, catalyst deactivation, and strategies for catalyst recovery and reuse. The study successfully demonstrates a sustainable catalytic route for aldol condensation in continuous flow, enhancing both the practical application and mechanistic understanding of biomass upgrading reactions. This work contributes to the development of greener chemical processes and supports the transition toward a circular and bio based economy.
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