Organic Synthesis 3: Esterification

  1. Place about 5.52g of carboxylic acid B (use anti-static gun on this solid before puttting it into the reaction vessel liner), 12mL alcohol B, and 1mL concentrated sulphuric acid (use a graduated pipette) into a reaction vessel liner.

  2. Ensure no solid on the side of the reaction vessel liner by washing it down with solvent. Add a stir bar and seal the vessel.

  3. While the reaction is heating, prepare 21mL of 2M NaHCO3 solution using sodium bicarbonate.

  4. Place the rotor into a fume hood, and vent all the reaction vessels by turning their venting screws one turn.

  5. Rinse the inside of the seal and liner with some acetone. Remember to not put the liner cap with Teflon lip side down.

  6. Transfer the reaction into a separatory funnel and wash with 3 × 7mL 2M NaHCO3 (aq).

  7. Dry the organic layer with anhydrous sodium sulphate. Isolate the organic product.