Catalytic heterogeneous route for the synthesis of dimethyl isosorbide using dimethyl carbonate as methylating agent

Abstract

In this contribution a heterogeneous catalytic route is envisaged by using as catalyst MgAlOx mixed oxides derived from hydrotalcite thermally treated (Mg/Al molar ratio of 3). The complete conversion of isosorbide is accomplished within the first hour but the DMI is not observed until 7 hours of reaction and its yield increases up to 100% after 24 hours of time on stream. The reutilization of the catalyst has shown a decline in DMI yield up to 52% after 4 runs even though the isosorbida conversion was of 100%.