Abstract

Three synthetic methods of alkyl cinnamates using different catalysts such as heteropolyacids (H8SiW12O42∙XH2O) and solid superacids (SO4 2- /La2O3-ZrO2-HZSM-5 and SO4 2- /TiO2) have been reviewed in the present paper. Effects of the reaction conditions such as the microwave heating power and times, the amount of the catalyst, the molar ratio of cinnamic acid to alcohols and the reaction time on the yields of alkyl cinnamates have also been discussed. The yields of alkyl cinnamates are improved by the addition of the abovementioned catalysts. Due to low investment costs and simple process these methods are having the advantages on other processes.

Key words: : overview; synthetic method; alkyl cinnamates; catalysts