# Vermiculite as an Eco-Friendly Catalyst in the Isomerization and Cyclization of Geraniol: Optimization Using the Response Surface Method

## TL;DR

This study explores using acid-treated vermiculite, a natural mineral, as an eco-friendly catalyst for transforming geraniol into valuable compounds under mild conditions.

## Contribution

The study introduces acid-modified vermiculite as a low-cost, green catalyst for geraniol isomerization and cyclization, optimized via response surface methodology.

## Key findings

- Acid-treated vermiculite achieved up to 85% geraniol conversion under mild conditions.
- Response surface methodology effectively optimized reaction parameters for high selectivity toward linalool and other products.
- The mineral's surface acidity was sufficient for catalysis without metal-based systems.

## Abstract

The isomerization of geraniol using natural, acid-modified minerals such as vermiculite presents a promising approach aligned with the principles of green chemistry. Vermiculite, a naturally abundant layered silicate mineral, was subjected to the acid activation and thoroughly characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These methods allowed the evaluation of crystallinity, structural stability, and surface morphology, which are critical parameters in the heterogeneous catalysis. The catalytic performance of the modified vermiculite was examined in the transformation of geraniol under mild conditions. The study systematically investigated the influence of key process parameters—temperature, reaction time, and catalyst content—on the conversion of geraniol and products selectivities. Optimization using the response surface methodology (RSM), enabled the identification of conditions leading to high conversion of geraniol (up to 85%) and allowing us to obtain favorable selectivities toward linalool, thunbergol, and 6,11-dimethyl-2,6,10-dodecatrien-1-ol. The results indicate that the acid-treated vermiculite exhibits sufficient surface acidity to effectively catalyze isomerization and cyclization reactions, without requiring additional promoters or metal-based systems. Moreover, the use of RSM provided the efficient framework for optimization reaction conditions, reducing experimental workload, and enhancing process efficiency. This study demonstrates the viability of natural, low-cost minerals as environmentally friendly catalysts and supports their integration into sustainable and “green” chemical technologies.