Abstract
Disclosed is the oxidation of uronic acids, such as galacturonic acid, to the corresponding aldaric acids (characterized by the formula HOOC-(CHOH)n-COOH, with n being an integer of from 1 to 5) such as galactaric acids. The starting material comprising the uronic acid is subjected to oxygen under the influence of a supported gold catalyst and in the presence of a base. The oxidation occurs in good selectivity and yield, under unexpectedly mild conditions. A source of galacturonic acids is pectin, such as that derived from sugar beet pulp.
Original language | English |
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Patent number | WO2013151428 |
Priority date | 4/04/12 |
Publication status | Published - 10 Oct 2013 |