MAKING EPOXIDIZED ESTERS FROM EPOXIDIZED NATURAL FATS AND OILS

摘要

Processes are described for making epoxidized fatty acid esters from epoxidized natural fats and oils, wherein low moisture fats and oils are identified and selected or made and used in a transesterification process. The products undergo phase separation, and reduced molar excesses of alcohol may be employed compared to processes not employing a low moisture feedstock.

主权项

1. A process for making an epoxidized fatty acid ester from an epoxidized natural fat or oil, comprising:
determining the moisture content of one or more epoxidized natural fats or oils; selecting a low moisture epoxidized natural fat or oil for use; and transesterifying the selected low moisture natural fat or oil with an alcohol in the presence of a transesterification catalyst and under conditions which are effective for carrying out the transesterification reaction.