Esterifications Catalyzed by Gold

The considerable interest in gold-based supported catalysts continues to yield new advances.  In a recent issue of Catalysis Science & Technology, Gemma L. Brett, Graham J. Hutchings, and co-workers report their work using supported gold and gold-palladium nanoparticles to promote the oxidative esterification of 1,2-propanediol.  The products, methyl lactate and methyl pyruvate, are important in the manufacture of personal care and pharmaceutical products.

The researchers show a significant support effect on product selectivity as well as a marked increase in activity when palladium is incorporated into the gold nanoparticles.  Preparation of the nanoparticles, support effects, and Au/Pd molar ratio are all discussed in the publication.  Nanoparticles were prepared using a sol technique, resulting in mean particle sizes on the order of 3.5 – 5.0 nm as determined by TEM. Titania, carbon, silica, and ceria supports were included in the studies.

Reference: “Oxidative esterification of 1,2 propanediol using gold and gold-palladium nanoparticles”, Catal. Sci. Technol., 2011, Advance Article [DOI: 10.1039/C1CY00254F].