Cyclopentanone Self-Aldol Condensation by Ball-Milling Method: Optimization Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

Self-condensation of biomass-derived cyclopentanone is an attractive reaction for sustainable aviation fuel production. Ball-milling is an effective method for this reaction. However, the effect of process parameters on product yield has not been explored and is still unclear. In this work, the process parameters in the ball-milling process are optimized by orthogonal experiment and subsequently investigated by the response surface methodology. Rotate speed is a critical index for dimer yield, and catalyst dosage is an essential index for trimer yield and selectivity. In addition, a life cycle assessment of both ball-milling and magnetic stirring methods is conducted to reveal the difference between the two methods. The ball-milling method shows relatively excellent economic and environmental potential impact, especially for the toxic consumption of marine aquatic organisms, which is a 38.2% reduction compared to the magnetic stirring method. The ball-milling method introduced in cyclopentanone self-condensation is more sustainable and economical than the magnetic stirring method.