Why use MSA(aq) as a catalyst for esterification?
Acids are used as catalysts for esterification reactions whenever an increase in reaction rate at the same reaction temperature and/or a decrease in reaction temperature at the same reaction rate is sought (e.g., in cases where the product is temperature sensitive). MSA has been found to offer excellent catalytic rate enhancement for esterification, and the use of MSA has in many cases been found to allow for the lowest color ester product.
