Cation-exchanged montmorillonite catalyzed hydration of styrene derivatives

Abstract

Iron-exchanged Wyoming montmorillonite (Fe 3+-SWy-1) is quite an effective catalyst for the hydration of styrene derivatives. The yields and selectivities depend on the reaction conditions, with good efficiency attained using THF as solvent at 120°C. Fe 3+-SWy-1 calcined at 300°C, and pillared clays (PIL.Fe 3+-SWy-1), either air dried or calcined at 300°C, were inactive for the hydration of styrene. The hydration of styrene was also investigated in the presence of a cation-exchanged Fluka K10 montmorillonite (M n+-K10). Fe 3+-K10 was found to be the most effective catalyst. However, it shows less activity, selectivity and reproducibility than Fe 3+-SWy-1.