Heterogeneous Acidic Catalyst Cyclization for Cycloether Synthesis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for preparing cycloether derivatives like Cetalox and Ambrox suffer from low yield and selectivity due to isomerization of double bonds and formation of undesired diastereoisomers during cyclization reactions, especially under acidic conditions, and there is a need for sustainable processes using recyclable heterogeneous catalysts.

Innovation Solution

A process involving the cyclization of compound formula (II) using a small amount of heterogeneous acidic catalyst, such as amorphous or crystalline acidic resins like A-15 dry or zeolites, to produce cycloether formula (I) with high yield and selectivity, preventing isomerization and forming the desired isomers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If homogeneous acidic conditions are used for cyclization, then the reaction can proceed, but the yield and selectivity are low due to isomerization of double bonds and formation of undesired diastereoisomers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveyield and selectivityVSAvoidisomerization and undesired diastereoisomer formation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a heterogeneous acidic catalyst as an intermediary substance that mediates the cyclization reaction. This catalyst provides acidic conditions necessary for the reaction while its heterogeneous nature prevents direct contact and unwanted side reactions with the substrate, thereby improving yield and selectivity by minimizing isomerization and undesired diastereoisomer formation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state parameter of the acidic catalyst from homogeneous to heterogeneous form. This parameter change allows the catalyst to provide the necessary acidic conditions for cyclization while its solid state and porous structure control the reaction environment, preventing double bond isomerization and reducing formation of undesired diastereoisomers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If traditional cyclization methods are used, then the process can be performed, but it is not sustainable as it does not use recyclable catalysts

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesustainabilityVSAvoidcatalyst recyclability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements catalyst recovery by using a heterogeneous acidic catalyst that can be separated from the reaction mixture through filtration or decantation. The recovered catalyst can be reused in subsequent reactions, making the process sustainable and economically viable by eliminating the need for continuous catalyst replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Reliability

If a small amount of heterogeneous catalyst is used, then sustainability is improved, but the reaction efficiency needs to be optimized to maintain high conversion

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesustainabilityVSAvoidconversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a heterogeneous acidic catalyst with a porous structure that provides a high surface area to volume ratio. This porous structure increases the number of active sites available for catalysis, allowing the reaction to proceed efficiently with only a small amount of catalyst, thereby maintaining high conversion while improving sustainability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The process achieves high yield and selectivity in producing cycloether formula (I) with minimal formation of undesired isomers, utilizing environmentally friendly heterogeneous catalysts that are recyclable, thereby improving the efficiency and sustainability of the cyclization reaction.

Implementation Method 1

The cyclisation of compound of formula (II) in a presence of a small amount of heterogenous acidic catalyst allows preparing a compound of formula (I) with high yield and high selectivity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCatalysis: Catalysis

Data Source

PatentUS20240327367A1Process for preparing a oxacylohexane or oxacylopentane derivative
Publication Date: 2024.10.03 FIRMENICH SA
  • US20240327367A1 patent drawing
  • US20240327367A1 patent drawing
  • US20240327367A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to the field of organic synthesis and, more specifically, it concerns a process for the preparation of a cycloether of formula (I) comprising the cyclisation of compound of formula (II) performed in the presence of heterogenous acidic catalyst.