Processes for the synthesis of γ-acetopropyl alcohol

Abstract

The literature on the existing processes for the synthesis of γ-acetopropyl alcohol (acetopropanol, 5-hydroxypentan-2-one, APA) is reviewed. This substance is used to produce vitamin B1, antimalarial drugs and polymers. The promising methods for APA production are the hydrogenation-hydration of sylvan (2-methylfuran), hydrogenation of furfural, and syntheses based on allyl acetate, sodium acetoacetic ether, and γ-butyrolactone.