Green Synthesis of Ethyl Acetate Catalyzed by Acidic Poly(ionic liquid)s

Abstract In this study, an acidic poly(ionic liquid)s catalyst was prepared via thermally initiated free-radical copolymerization followed by acidification. For the first time, this catalyst was applied to the synthesis of ethyl acetate in an experimental teaching. Compared with the conventional method using concentrated sulfuric acid, this catalyst is less corrosive, generates fewer byproducts, and can be easily separated and recycled, making the procedure safer and greener-an important advantage for high school and undergraduate chemistry lab settings. The successful synthesis of the catalyst was confirmed by several common characterization techniques. The acid-site density of the catalyst, determined by acid–base neutralization titration, was 0.79 mmol H+ g–1. Product yields were quantified by gas chromatography (GC); the ethyl acetate yield reached 72.2%. This environmentally friendly protocol provides experimental safety; consequently, it enables students to acquire practical experience with contemporary catalytic principles and catalyst reuse strategies. In addition, within the student-facing experimental boundary, the improved experimental procedure is greener and safer than the conventional method, making it more suitable for senior high school and undergraduate chemistry experimental teaching. This protocol may increase students’ interest in chemistry and has potential applicability in chemical experiment courses, chemistry education research, and related areas.