Catalytic Synthesis of Monoterpene-Derived Compounds

Monoterpenes, naturally abundant C10 terpenoid hydrocarbons, represent a versatile platform for the production of high-value fragrances, polymers, solvents and pharmaceuticals. Catalytic strategies have been developed to transform these renewable feedstocks through selective oxidation, epoxidation, hydroformylation, cycloaddition and acid-catalysed condensations. Heterogeneous catalysts based on zeolites, acid-functionalised clays and mixed-oxide materials allow precise control over Brønsted and Lewis acidity, pore environment and metal dispersion, thereby tailoring activity and product selectivity. Recent efforts have emphasised green chemistry principles, minimising solvent use, employing benign reaction media such as supercritical CO2 or dimethyl carbonate, and integrating tandem or one-pot sequences to reduce energy consumption and waste. These advances have unlocked chiral building blocks and novel oxygenated terpenoid frameworks, demonstrating the global potential of monoterpene valorisation in sustainable chemical manufacturing.

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Catalytic Synthesis of Monoterpene-Derived Compounds publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in catalytic synthesis of monoterpene-derived compounds across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Monoterpene: A C10 terpenoid hydrocarbon found in essential oils, used as a renewable chemical feedstock.

Heterogeneous catalysis: Catalysis in which the catalyst is in a different phase (typically solid) to the reactants, allowing easy separation and reuse.

Brønsted acid: A substance that donates a proton (H+) during a chemical reaction, influencing reaction pathways and selectivity.

Lewis acid: A species that accepts an electron pair, often tuning catalytic activity in condensation and cycloaddition reactions.

Hydroformylation: Addition of a formyl group (–CHO) and hydrogen to an alkene, yielding aldehydes and alcohols.

Cycloaddition: A reaction in which two unsaturated molecules combine to form a cyclic product, often used for CO2 fixation.

References

1. Upgrading biomass to high-added value chemicals: synthesis of monoterpenes-based compounds using catalytic green chemical pathways. Catalysis Reviews (2024).
2. Catalytic condensation of α-pinene with formaldehyde. Journal of Catalysis (2024).
3. Catalytic condensation of 3-carene with formaldehyde. Molecular Catalysis (2024).