| abstract |
The present invention relates to a process for preparing an ester having formula R-COO-R' (I), wherein R represents a group selected from: (i) a linear or branched alkyl, containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, (ii) an aryl containing from 6 to 12 carbon atoms, (iii) a heterocycle with 4 to 12 carbon atoms containing at least one heteroatom selected from 0, N, P and S, R' represents a linear or branched alkyl containing from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, said process comprising at least a phase of reacting a reaction mixture comprising at least one aldehyde having formula R-CHO (II), wherein R has the meanings defined above, and at least one alcohol having general formula R' -OH (III), wherein R' has the meanings defined above, in the presence of at least one solid basic catalyst, at a temperature within the range of 120°C - 300°C, obtaining said ester having formula (I). |