What are Some Applications of Alkali Metal Oxides in Catalysis?
1. Transesterification: Alkali metal oxides are widely used in the production of biodiesel through the transesterification of vegetable oils and animal fats. 2. Dehydration Reactions: They are effective in catalyzing the dehydration of alcohols to form alkenes. 3. Aldol Condensation: These oxides can catalyze the aldol condensation reaction, which is essential in organic synthesis. 4. CO2 Capture: Alkali metal oxides are employed in capturing and converting carbon dioxide into useful chemicals.
