Boosted selectivity toward high glycerol tertiary butyl ethers by microwave-assisted sulfonic acid-functionalization of SBA-15 and beta zeolite

► Microwaves allowed us to introduce faster higher amounts of sulfonic groups in SBA-15. ► Partial dealumination during sulfonation favored the post-synthesis sulfonation of beta. ► Microwave-assisted sulfonated catalysts led the highest selectivity to h-GTBE (83-91%). ► Microporosity was not a barrier to obtain triether if having enough Brønsted acidity.