Sulfonic Acid-Functionalized Solid Acid Catalyst in Esterification and Transesterification Reactions

Abstract

The recent development of an environmentally benign solid acid catalyst has been a relatively cutting-edge area of research in the synthesis of value added esters and biodiesel. Solid acid catalysts are economically viable, effective, and environmentally amicable than conventional homogeneous catalysts and reusability of the catalyst is another advantage of these catalysts. The applicability of sulfonic acid-functionalized solid acid catalysts in the well-known esterification and transesterification reactions for the synthesis of esters and biodiesel, respectively along with their reusability aspect are discussed in this review.