| The work of this dissertation focuses on development of green reaction processes that can substitute for traditional, less environmentally friendly methods, in particular: acid catalyzed reactions. The effect of a variety of aqueous systems on the reaction of the terpene hydrocarbon, beta-pinene was investigated. The acid-catalyzed hydration of beta-pinene is a reaction of commercial significance, especially to the flavor and fragrance industry. The products of the reaction are alcohols (terpineol and bicyclic alcohols) and hydrocarbons. From a commercial standpoint, the alcohols are the desired products. CO2 gas-expanded liquids (GXL) and hot water (200°C) are demonstrated as green substitutes for strong acid in the hydrolysis of beta-pinene. Relatively mild CO2 pressures (well below the critical pressure) can be used to create a GXL and provide the in situ catalysis. Additionally the ratio of desired hydrolysis products to hydrocarbon products was improved in the GXL over most conventional acid-catalyzed systems. Hot water, well below the critical point at 200°C and with no added acid, is also a successful reaction media for beta-pinene hydrolysis. |
