SINGLE-PHASE PROCESS FOR PRODUCTION OF FATTY ACID METHYL ESTERS FROM MIXTURES OF TRIGLYCERIDES AND FATTY ACIDS

摘要

A process for the esterification of a mixture of fatty acids and triglycerides. The process comprises forming a single phase solution of fatty acids and triglyceride in an alcohol selected from methanol and ethanol, the ratio of said alcohol to triglyceride being 15:1 to 35:1. The solution further comprises a co-solvent in an amount to form the single phase. In a first step, an acid catalyst for the esterification of the fatty acids is added. After a period of time, the acid catalyst is neutralised and a base catalyst for the transesterification of triglycerides is added. After a further period of time, esters are separated from the solution.