Process optimization and kinetic modeling for esterification of propionic acid with benzyl alcohol on ion-exchange resin catalyst

Benzyl propionate, an ester with floral and fruity odor, has significant applications in perfumery and flavor industries. This paper describes the optimization of the synthesis of benzyl propionate catalyzed by Amberlyst-15. The effects of various process parameters such as catalyst loading, alcohol-to-acid molar ratio and reaction temperature on propionic acid conversion and yield of ester were assessed by response surface methodology (RSM). The external and internal mass transfer limitations were found to be absent. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the acquired quadratic model successfully interpreted the experimental data with the coefficient of determination values, (R2>0.98) and adjusted R2 values, (>0.97). The RSM model was validated by good agreement between the model predicted and experimental values for responses. Pseudohomogeneous (PH) kinetic model was used and validated (R2>0.95) with the experimental data. The activation energy and frequency factor were evaluated as 42.07 kJ mol−1 and 19,874.64 L mol−1 min−1, respectively.