Current developments in esterification reaction: A review on process and parameters

Esters are among the highest volume of industrial organic compounds produced. They are frequently employed in various domestic and industrial processes. Fischer esterification regarded as the most common and widely practiced process of ester synthesis, faces serious limitations of low conversion and high reaction time attributed largely to establishment of equilibrium. Ester hydrolysis, reverse reaction to esterification, starts by supply of a byproduct- water. Several approaches have been developed to avoid equilibrium establishment and to improve overall conversion and rate of reaction, a significant difference exists between the current industrial practices and optimum esterification process/conditions. In the current review, a critical analysis of esterification techniques is conducted. Catalytic, non-catalytic thermal esterification, enzymatic esterification, along with factors affecting their productivity are discussed in detail. The current barriers, future challenges and potential of the esterification technologies are analyzed. Based on the comprehensive-data analysis, a novel technology-based solution is proposed.