Methyl 4-methoxypentanoate: a novel and potential downstream chemical of biomass derived gamma-valerolactone

Abstract

Lignocellulosic derived gamma-valerolactone was effectively converted into methyl 4-methoxypentanoate, a potential liquid biofuel, solvent and fragrance, by the catalysis of a hydrogen exchanged ultra-stable Y zeolite (HUSY) and insoluble carbonates such as CaCO₃. The catalytic competing generation process between methyl 4-methoxypentanoate and pentenoate esters was also analysed.