SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION OF METHYL SALICYLATE: UTILIZING BETULA PAPYIFERA EXTRACT IN GREEN SYNTHESIS

Spoorthi P.*, S. Mounika and S. Sandhya

ABSTRACT

Background The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly production processes has sparked interest in green chemistry approaches. Betula papyrifera, also known as paper birch, contains salicin, a glycoside that can be transformed into salicylic acid, a precursor to Methyl Salicylate. This study investigates the potential of using Betula papyrifera extract in a green synthesis pathway for Methyl Salicylate production, presenting a promising alternative to conventional methods. Result A groundbreaking method for synthesizing Methyl Salicylate using birch bark powder as a natural catalyst has delivered outstanding results with a 95% yield and purity achieved in just 5 minutes. This approach demonstrates significant environmental benefits and showcases the compound's desired properties and heightened biological activity through IR spectroscopy and antimicrobial/antifungal activity assays. Conclusion This new way to make Methyl Salicylate is a great example of using natural catalysts and microwave technology to be more efficient and eco-friendly. It sets a new standard for being sustainable and can be used in green chemistry and industry.

Keywords: Green Chemistry, Sustainable Production, Betula papyrifera, Eco-friendly, IR spectroscopy.