Biomass transformation: Hydration and isomerization reactions of turpentine oil using ion exchange resins as catalyst

Abstract

The hydration and isomerization of the biomass turpentine have been studied in the presence of Purolite CT175. The ion exchange resin catalyst was active for hydration and selective for producing terpenic alcohols, with a conversion of 97% and showed 57% selectivity for α-terpineol using heating and stirring. The Purolite CT175-catalyzed isomerization of turpentine taken place in a high intensity ultrasound (HIU) condition; and showed conversion of 90% and 30% selectivity for camphene at 30 min. Recyclability of ion exchange resin was evaluated in both reaction and its activity remained good even after four runs.