Method for the Catalytic Production of an Alkyl Formate

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This invention introduces a catalytic process for producing alkyl formates (such as methyl formate or ethyl formate) by reacting substances like alpha-hydroxy aldehydes, alpha-hydroxy carboxylic acids, carbohydrates, or glycosides with a vanadium-containing oxygen compound as a catalyst in the presence of an alkanol (e.g., methanol, ethanol). The resulting alkyl formate can be selectively separated from other side-products. The process is efficient, reduces unwanted byproducts like CO2, and allows for the catalyst to be regenerated through oxidation, making it suitable for industrial-scale operation. Biomass feedstocks can be used as starting materials.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Industrial production of alkyl formates (e.g., methyl formate, ethyl formate) as solvents, intermediates, or chemical feedstocks.
• Conversion of renewable biomass (wood chips, molasses, agricultural residues) into valuable chemicals.
• Manufacturing of formic acid in high yield when water is present, useful for preservatives, cleaning agents, and as a hydrogen carrier.
• Green chemistry processes aiming to utilize renewable resources with minimized byproducts.
• Integration into processes where selective separation of product is critical to improve efficiency and reduce energy costs.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• High selectivity and yield for alkyl formate and/or formic acid depending on the solvent composition.
• Reduces undesirable byproducts like carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, making the process more environmentally friendly.
• Catalyst is regenerable and reusable thanks to oxidation step, enhancing process sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
• Works with a variety of renewable feedstocks, enabling biomass valorization and supporting circular economy goals.
• Flexible product profile: by adjusting water and alkanol content, either alkyl formate or formic acid can be preferentially produced.
• Operates at moderate temperatures (70–100°C) and pressures, allowing for safer and more energy-efficient industrial applications.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for catalytically producing an alkyl formate, wherein at least one alpha-hydroxy aldehyde, at least one alpha-hydroxy carboxylic acid, at least one carbohydrate, and/or at least one glycoside is reacted by means of a vanadium-oxygen compound, which contains vanadium in the oxidation stage +IV or +V, or a salt thereof as a catalyst in the solution, wherein the solution contains an alkanol, and the alkyl formate produced as a reaction product is separated from at least one other resulting reaction product. The catalyst which is reduced during the catalytic reaction is restored to its starting state in an oxidation process.