Synthesis of long-chain polyols from the Claisen condensation of γ-valerolactone

Abstract

A novel and direct method for the production of polyols with long chains is developed under simple and mild conditions starting from renewable gamma-valerolactone (GVL), a chemical platform easily obtained from biomass. The key step involves a Claisen condensation between two GVL molecules to provide a cyclic hemiketal in 85% yield. After alkylation and/or reduction, this ketal serves as a new platform to produce several high-value-added branched chain molecules with carbons ranging from C10 to C21.