A Novel Process for Synthesis of Cyclohexyl Ferulate

Cyclohexyl ferulate was prepared by direct esterification of ferulic acid and cyclohexanol as raw materials with sodium bisulfate supported by silica as a catalyst. The influences of some factors on the synthesis process were studied. The optimal reaction conditions based upon 0.2 mol of ferulic acid were chosen that the molar ratio of cyclohexanol to ferulic acid was 10 : 1, the mass ratio of catalyst to reactants was 5%, refluxing reaction time was 3.5 hours, et al. The yield of the product reached 80%. The structure of the product was characterized by IR, 1H NMR and MS spectrum. The catalyst could be recycled and used for many times, which is friendly to the environment.