p-Sulfonic acid calix[n]arenes as homogeneous and recyclable organocatalysts for esterification reactions

Abstract

Esterification yields were significantly improved using calix[n]arenes catalysts under simple conditions. p-Sulfonic acid calix[4]arene and p-sulfonic acid calix[6]arene were powerful organocatalysts in several esterification reactions, which showed activity comparable or even superior to other well-established acids catalysts, such as, sulfuric acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, and p-hydroxybezenesulfonic acid described in the literature.