The standard synthesis of carvone from the oxidation of limonene requires the use of ethyl nitrite (C2H5NO2) and HCl. The ethyl nitrite must be a gas for the reaction the work. It is generated using H2SO4, NaNO2, and a water aspirator trap system.This research is focused on examining a greener synthesis of carvone using solid surfaces such as silica gel (SiO2) and alumina (Al2O3). The greener reaction is used to generate the HCl in situ. To generate the HCl, suspensions of silica gel or alumina in methylene chloride react with thionyl chloride (SOCl2).The purpose of the SiO2 and Al2O3 is that they facilitate hydrohalogenation of alkenes, making the addition of the halogen possible. Without the SiO2 or Al2O3, the addition would occur slowly or not at all.To confirm the limonene nitrosochloride, carvoxime, and carvone, IR, GC-MS, TLC, and even melting points are used.

Greener synthesis of carvone from the oxidation of limonene

245th National Meeting (2013)

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