Transformations of Glycerol into High-Value-Added Chemical Products: Ketalization and Esterification Reactions

PEREZ, FEDERICO M.; GATTI, MARTIN N.; SANTORI, GERARDO F.; POMPEO, FRANCISCO

Reactions

MDPI

Año: 2023 vol. 4 p. 569 - 634

Biomass allows us to obtain energy and high-value-added compounds through the use ofdifferent physical and chemical processes. The glycerol obtained as a by-product in the synthesisof biodiesel is considered a biomass compound that has the potential to be used as a raw materialto obtain different chemical products for industry. The development and growth of the biodieselindustry allows for the projection of glycerol biorefineries around these plants that efficiently andsustainably integrate the biodiesel production process together with the glycerol transformationprocesses. This work presents a review of the ketalization and esterification of glycerol to obtainsolketal and acetylglycerols, which are considered products of high added value for the chemicaland fuel industry. First, the general aspects and mechanisms of both reactions are presented, as well as the related chemical equilibrium concepts. Subsequently, the catalysts employed are described, classifying them according to their catalytic nature (zeolites, carbons, exchange resins, etc.). The reaction conditions used are also described, and the best results for each catalytic system are presented.In addition, stability studies and the main deactivation mechanisms are discussed. Finally, the workpresents the kinetic models that have been formulated to date for some of these systems. It is expected that this review work will serve as a tool for the advancement of studies on the ketalization and esterification reactions that allow for the projection of biorefineries based on glycerol as a raw material.