The reaction between GBL and NaOh is equimolar and in theory should produce an equimolar amount of NaGhb. For example 3.25 M of NaOH reacted with 3.25 M of GBL should yield 3.25 M NaGhb (i.e., 410 grams). The reaction is certainly not 100 % efficient, but would any one know the approximate efficiency. A figure of 50% eficiency has been thrown around , so in the above example the yield would be 205 grams. Thanks, the above is merely a mathmatical/chemical exercise, not a synthesis question.
synthesis reactions seldom give 100% yields. since this is a base catalyzed hydrolysis reaction, the pH will have to be closely monitored, to determine whether the reaction favors the products, or reactants. this dictates yield. too high of a pH, you'll need to add more reactant to push equilibrium towards the product side. so you see, yield depends on how well you can titrate (monitor the pH) in this reaction; play your cards right, and you can probably get better than 80% yield. oh, and don't use tap water for your sodium hydroxide solution; use distilled water instead. the calcium/chloride ions in tap water may leave you with extraneous salts, which may hurt your yield.
