Optimization of Phenol Synthesis via Orange Peel Catalyst Using Design of Experiments

In this study we have used waste orange peel as a natural catalytic source of citric acid for synthesizing phenol from phenyl boronic acid. Optimization study for list of oxidants and solvents proves H 2 O 2 in solvent‐free condition gives 95% yield in less reaction time at room temperature. Further optimization of reaction uses design expert software with regular two‐level design. Factorial design provides effect of each factor and their interaction to determine maximum yield. Actual data for composition closely matches with predicted data ( p > 0.05), validating the experimental design. This method has activity toward the synthesis of drug intermediate as well as different substrate of phenyl boronic acid. FTIR spectra of waste orange peel include various functional groups with citric acid which is responsible for catalytic activity. The amount of citric acid present in waste orange peel was calculated by titrimetric method. Observed E‐factor for Phenol synthesis scheme was 0.1792, which claim sustainability toward the environment. Catalyst was waste generated, cheaper and biodegradable in nature and 5 times reusable. Phenol and its compound have pharmaceutical applications since new environmentally friendly method for synthesis is needed.