Polymer-supported titanate as catalyst for the transesterification of acrylic monomers

Transesterification of (meth)acrylic esters catalysed by alkyl titanates is an important industrial reaction. The current processes are homogeneous but heterogeneous alternatives are attractive for cost and environmental reasons. We have developed a straightforward and cost-effective synthesis of a polymer-supported titanium alkoxide catalyst involving cheap, readily available and relatively non-toxic chemicals, solvents and workup procedures. Efficiency and stability of the catalyst were tested in a laboratory-scale continuous flow reactor under equilibrium conditions for the preparation of N,N-dimethylaminoethylacrylate, a chemical of industrial interest. The results obtained indicate a good stability of the system to metal leaching on the long term.