S. R. J. and, S. B. Sawant
2000
Citations
0
Influential Citations
2
Citations
Journal
Organic Process Research & Development
Abstract
Kinetic studies in conversion of benzyl chlorides to corresponding alcohols via the benzoates are presented in this paper. The esterification reaction of 2-chlorobenzyl chloride, 4-chlorobenzyl chloride, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl chloride and benzyl chloride with aqueous sodium benzoate in the presence of phase transfer catalysts was investigated. The parameters studied are stirring speed, catalysts, the catalyst loading, temperature and the concentration of aqueous phase. The esterification reaction follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. The esters, were hydrolysed with and without a phase transfer catalyst to give corresponding benzyl alcohols without involving respective dibenzyl ethers. Material balance for the laboratory batch process of each chlorobenzyl alcohol has also been presented. A recycle strategy presented is shown to be effective in terms of alkali and benzoic acid consumption as the reactants are consumed to near stoichiometric levels.