Valerolactone

Valerolactone, commonly known as gamma-valerolactone (GVL), is a five-membered cyclic ester (a lactone) derived from valeric acid. Its chemical formula is C5H8O2 and its molecular weight is about 100.12 g/mol. GVL is a colorless, relatively high-boiling liquid that serves as a versatile solvent and chemical building block.

GVL consists of a gamma-lactone ring, a compact and polar structure that confers good solvating power for a wide range of organic and some inorganic compounds. It is miscible with water and with many organic solvents, and it is noted for being a relatively low-toxicity, biodegradable solvent. Its boiling point is around 208°C, and it is stable under normal handling conditions.

Production and sources: gamma-Valerolactone is typically produced from levulinic acid, which in turn is obtained from biomass through acid hydrolysis of cellulose and subsequent processing. Several catalytic routes convert levulinic acid to GVL, including hydrogenative cyclization and dehydration pathways that form the lactone ring. This makes GVL part of the broader set of renewable platform chemicals derived from biomass.

Applications: The primary use of GVL is as a green solvent in coatings, cleaners, adhesives, and natural-product extractions. It is valued as a safer, more environment-friendly alternative to many conventional volatile organic solvents. GVL also serves as a versatile chemical intermediate and can be used as a precursor for polymers and as a platform chemical for various value-added products. In some research contexts, it is explored as a component in battery electrolytes and as an additive in biofuel formulations.

Safety and environmental impact: GVL is generally regarded as having low acute toxicity and good environmental compatibility. It is readily biodegradable; proper handling and storage guidelines apply as with other solvents.