Synthesis and characterization of analogue of mordenite and its role as a catalyst for Friedel-Crafts acylation of anisole

Jyoti Bhadauriaa, B.K. Singhb,

Abstract

4-methoxy propiophenone used as an intermediate for the production of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals was synthesized by Friedel-Crafts acylation of anisole with propionic anhydride using mordenite zeolite as a solid acid catalyst. Mordenite was synthesized in the laboratory by hydrothermal method, after dealumination and calcination, the sample was characterized by different techniques such as powder X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. Effect of various reaction parameters such as reaction time, molar ratio of reactants, weight of catalyst and reaction temperature were studied to optimize the reaction conditions. The optimum condition for the synthesis of 4- methoxypropiophenone was found at anisole to propionic anhydride molar ratio 8:1, using 0.5 g of the catalyst at 373K. The product was analyzed by Gas Chromatography and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry analysis. The conversion of propionic anhydride to 4- methoxypropiophenone was found to be 44.7% in case of dealuminated form of HMOR zeolite and 39.4% for HMOR zeolite respectively.