Transesterification: Salol synthesis over solid acids

Preparation, characterization of zirconia, SO42- and Mo(VI) ions modified zirconia and their catalytic performance in phenyl salicylate (Salol) synthesis are described. The catalytic materials have been analyzed for their total surface acidity, BET surface area and powder XRD patterns. Salol synthesis via transesterification of methyl salicylate with phenol over these catalysts has been studied in liquid phase. The effect of presence of molecular sieves, molar ratio of reactants, catalyst weight and reaction time on the conversion of phenol and selectivity towards salol has been studied. An increase in the conversion of phenol to an extent of up to 18% was observed when molecular sieves were used in the reaction. The results have been interpreted based on the variation of acidic properties and powder XRD phases of zirconia on incorporation of SO42- and Mo(VI) ions. A triangular link between the surface acidity, powder XRD phases and the catalytic activity of the catalysts was observed. Good yield of salol with 100% selectivity could be achieved by selecting a suitable catalyst and proper reaction conditions.