Synthesis of alkyl levulinate as fuel blending agent by catalytic valorization of carbohydrates via alcoholysis: Recent advances and challenges

Abstract

Alkyl levulinate moieties are recognized as the most attractive and potential energy compounds due to their excellent fuel additive/blending properties and commercial applications. These alkyl levulinates can be efficiently synthesized by the Bronsted and Lewis acid catalytic valorization of carbohydrates through alcoholysis reaction. However, potential production of alkyl levulinate at the industrial scale-up is still a challenging issue which demands for an overview of current research advances in the field to expand the knowledge horizon and scope for the future perspective. With this objective, the present review is planned to emphasize the recent update on (i) catalytic valorization of carbohydrates via alcoholysis, (ii) fuel blending potential of levulinates (iii) factors affecting (catalyst, solvent, feedstock) alcoholysis reaction and (iv) mechanistic view for alcoholysis of carbohydrates. Moreover, this review also emphasizes future prospects in terms of opportunities/challenges for the sustainable production of alkyl levulinate from carbohydrates through alcoholysis.