Separation of an E/Z allylic alcohol mixture by esterification using lipases

Lipases from porcine pancreas (PPL) and Candida rugosa (CRL) [ex Candida cy lindracea (CCL)] immobilised over alumina and silica gel were tested for th eir ability to catalyse the esterification and transesterification of a ner ol-geraniol mixture with hexanoic or octanoic acids and vinyl acetate. Diff erent yields are obtained from the two isomers. The reaction can be utilise d as a separation method.