An efficient heterogeneous procedure for the catalytic acetalization and ketalization at room temperature under solvent-free condition

A novel carbon-based strong acid catalyst, methylnaphthalenesulfonic acid — formaldehyde condensate, has been synthesized successfully. The catalytic activity for acetalization and ketalization at room temperature under solvent-free condition was investigated. The results showed that the novel catalyst was very efficient for the reaction. Also the novel heterogeneous catalyst owned the advantages of high activity, wide applicability, strikingly simple work-up procedure, non-pollution, stability and reusability, which made the catalyst hold great potential for the “green process”.