Lipase catalyzed synthesis of benzyl acetate in solvent-free medium using vinyl acetate as acyl donor

Use of vinyl acetate as acyl donor in transesterification of benzyl alcohol catalyzed by a commercially available lipase (Lipozyme® RM IM) gave 100% conversion in 10 min. The excess acyl donor and the enzyme could be recovered and reused. Unlike the chemical catalytic processes, it produced no undesirable side product.

Commercially available immobilized Mucor miehei lipase, Lipozyme® RM IM, with benzyl alcohol and vinyl acetate in 1:6 molar ratio, in solvent-free medium, at pH 7 and at 45 °C gives 100% yield of benzyl acetate in 10 min.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide