Synthesis of Dodecyl Acrylate Via Thermal Methanolysis of <i>Gmelina Arborea</i> Leaf Biomass

Abstract Dodecyl acrylate has numerous important applications, including coatings, adhesives, fillers, textile agents, solvents, sealants, detergents, and fragrances. This study uses a barium chloride catalyst to explore the synthesis of dodecyl acrylate through the thermal methanolysis of Gmelina arborea waste leaves. Gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis revealed the yields of dodecyl acrylate at reaction times of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 minutes, which were 6.43%, 6.72%, 6.58%, 6.44%, 6.53%, and 6.62%, respectively. The highest yield, 6.72%, corresponding to 265.86 mg/g, was achieved after 20 minutes of reaction time. The yield decreased to 6.44% at 40 minutes but increased again to 6.62% at 60 minutes. This method offers an economical approach for dodecyl acrylate production, as Gmelina arborea waste leaves are inexpensive and readily available, making the process cost-effective.