Epoxidation of Palm Kernel Oil-Based Crude Oleic Acid

Abstract

Most vegetable oils have high content of unsaturated bond and can be converted into epoxidized fatty acids. These days, epoxidized vegetable oils are great concern as they are obtained from sustainable, renewable natural resources and are environmental friendly. The epoxidation of palm oleic acid was carried out by using in situ generated performic acid (HCOOOH) to produce epoxidized oleic acid. The degree of temperature, the molar ratio of formic acid or hydrogen peroxide and types of catalyst was considered. Epoxidation results were based on complete conversion oxirane, rate of epoxidation and stability of the oxirane. It was found that a maximum relative conversion oxirane (RCO) of epoxide is 88% at optimal condition.