Synthesis of TBC using sodium bisulfate as catalyst

The tributyl citrate(TBC) was synthesized by esterification of citric acid with butanol using solid acid as catalyst. The factors such as reaction temperature, catalyst, the ratio of material and the reaction time that may have an effect on the esterification are discussed. It is shown that sodium bisulfate is a good catalyst with high catalytic activity, low price and non-pollution. In the presence of 4% of the catalyst, the reaction of butanol with citric acid (in 4: 1 molar ratio) for 3. 5h at 110 - 140 C gives tributyl citrate in 95%.