Catalytic Isomerization of Terpene Derivatives
Summary
Catalytic isomerization of terpene derivatives encompasses the transformation of naturally abundant monoterpenes and their oxidation products into value-added isomers under the influence of solid acid catalysts. These processes exploit carbocation-mediated pathways to rearrange carbon skeletons or shift double bonds, affording compounds such as dihydrocarvone, carveol, campholenic aldehyde, terpinolene and p-cymene. Advances in catalyst design—including microporous zeolites, hierarchical frameworks and modified clay nanotubes—have focused on tuning pore architecture, acid strength and hydrophobicity to steer selectivity. Computational studies and kinetic modelling have illuminated rate-determining steps, often involving protonation and deprotonation sequences on Brønsted or Lewis acid sites. The global significance of this research lies in enabling biomass valorisation and sustainable routes to fragrances, flavours, fine chemicals and polymer intermediates. Moreover, process intensification under mild conditions and the use of green solvents align with principles of green chemistry, addressing both environmental impact and industrial scalability.
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Catalytic Isomerization of Terpene Derivatives publication trend
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Technical terms
Catalytic isomerization: chemical transformation converting a compound into one of its isomeric forms using a catalyst.
Terpene derivative: an oxidised or functionalised product of a terpene hydrocarbon, often bearing epoxide or alcohol functionalities.
Brønsted acid site: a surface site capable of donating a proton to a substrate molecule.
Lewis acid site: a surface site that accepts an electron pair, facilitating carbocation formation.
Mesoporosity: presence of pores with diameters between 2 and 50 nm, enhancing diffusion of larger organic molecules.
References
- Synthesis of dihydrocarvone over dendritic ZSM-5 Zeolite: A comprehensive study of experimental, kinetics, and computational insights. Chemical Engineering Journal (2024).
- Preparation, acid modification and catalytic activity of kaolinite nanotubes in α-pinene oxide isomerization. RSC Advances (2024).
- Hierarchical Beta Zeolites As Catalysts in α‑Pinene Oxide Isomerization. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering (2022).
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