Optimization of selectively chloroacetic acid esterification in the presence of Amberlyst-15 catalyst using the response surface methodology

Abstract

This research seeks to develop a sustainable and effective approach to the synthesis of the α-halocarboxylic acid ester derivatives. Using Amberlyst-15, as a heterogeneous acid catalyst, the reaction between various alcohols and chloroacetic acid has been successfully facilitated. In contrast to common optimization procedures, the response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize the reaction conditions, ensuring maximum yield and selectivity. First, several factors including temperature, time, catalyst loading, and acid-to-alcohol ratio were identified to establish the required minimum number of experiments, followed by their execution in the laboratory. Finally, RSM was applied to investigate and optimize the system based on the experimental data. Notably, all materials utilized in this study are widely accessible, which renders this approach highly practical and scalable. The environmentally friendly and sustainable nature of the suggested method, coupled with optimized reaction conditions, renders it a desirable option for producing ester derivatives.