Structure and Base Catalysis of Supercritical Water in the Noncatalytic Benzaldehyde Disproportionation Using Water at High Temperatures and Pressures

Abstract

Catalyst and reaction medium in one: that is the dual role of supercritical water (scH2O) in the disproportionation of benzaldehyde. In the near-critical region the reaction rates (kp2) are significantly greater than those found in water and aqueous NaOH (see picture, values for scH2O and water are at 25 MPa), also unequivocal chemical evidence for the participation of the OH− ion, not the OH. radical, is obtained.