Ethyl Lactate Synthesis by Catalytic Membranes in a Pervaporation‐Assisted Membrane Reactor

A poly(styrenesulfonic acid)‐carboxymethylcellulose (PSSA‐CMC) blend catalytic membrane was prepared for ethyl lactate production in a pervaporation‐aided membrane reactor. The effects of PSSA/CMC concentration, initial molar ratio, and temperature on acid conversion were evaluated. Additionally, the separation performance of membrane was investigated as a function of flux and separation factor. Increasing the temperature enhanced lactic acid conversion at constant alcohol:acid ratio. In order to achieve high lactic acid conversion associated with a high‐purity final product without the need of a further purification step, a reactive and functional poly(styrenesulfonic acid)‐carboxymethylcellulose blend catalytic membrane was developed and applied in a pervaporation‐aided membrane reactor for ethyl lactate production. Excellent acid conversion could be realized.