Methoxylation of α-pinene using NiO/Y-Zeolite catalysts

α-Pinene in turpentine oil can be processed further to produce high value derivative compounds. One of the chemical process that can be used to increase of the value of α-pinene is by methoxylation by using certain catalysts. This study aims to determine the effects of time, temperature, and type of catalyst in the methoxylation of α-pinene. Characterization of the catalyst include: crystallinity by XRD (X-Ray diffractometer), the functional groups analysis by FT-IR (Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), surface area of catalyst with SAA (Surface Area Analyzer), and the acidity test by gravimetric method. Modification of the catalyst with NiO does not change the crystal structure of Y-zeolite significantly. Methoxylation was carried out in a modified batch reactor with mixer at various temperatures 40, 50, 60°C and time variations for 1, 2, 3, 4 hours. Reaction products were identified by GC (Gas Chromatography) and GC-MS (Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry). The product of α-pinene methoxylation was found to be patchouli alcohol. The highest selectivity (67.06 %) and conversion (75.41%) were obtained at the temperature of 60°C and at reaction time of 4 hours with NiO/ZY catalyst. NiO/ZY catalysts is more selective to be used in the α-pinene methoxylation compared with H-ZY.