Multiscale Approach for the Optimization of Ketones Production From Carboxylic Acids by the Decarboxylative Ketonization Reaction

A historical perspective on the advancement of the decarboxylative ketonization catalysis research and development in industry and in academia is given with the focus on the past twenty years. Reviewed topics cover results of the most recent computational modeling and isotopic labeling studies, fine details of the reaction mechanism, experimental evidence for the existence of hidden degenerate reactions, explanation of the reaction rate inhibition, and reversibility of the reaction course. For this reaction, characterized strictly as acid-base catalysis, the origin of the misconception about the requirement for metal oxide catalysts being reducible and oxidizable is explained. Technology solutions for the selectivity improvement, as well as factors affecting catalyst stability are discussed. The review is prepared with the goal to help with the scaling up decarboxylative ketonization reaction for existing production of industrial ketones and for any bio fuels upgrading processes in the future