oleic acid

The epoxidation of oleic acid was carried out by using in situ generated performic acid (HCOOOH) to produce epoxidized oleic acid. Performic acid was formed by mixing formic acid (as oxygen carrier) and hydrogen peroxide (as oxygen donor). The epoxide ring is very reactive, especially in the presence of acidic condition making the epoxide a suitable intermediate for synthesis of other chemicals. The most likely side reaction that occurred in the in situ epoxidation is the reaction of oxirane ring with formic acid, which led to formation of diol and a-glycol as side products.

Regularities of the reaction of oleic acid with a mixture of ethanolamines have been investigated under non-stationary conditions in the presence of H-form of cation-exchange resin KU-2-8 as a catalyst. The effect of a ratio between reagents and the catalyst on the acid conversion, selectivity and products yield has been determined. N-acylation of mono- and diethanolamines by an oleic acid was found to be more intensive compared with esterification of hydroxy groups of ethanolamine.

The synthesis of functional derivatives of epoxystearic acid methyl ester by oxirane ring opening and transesterification of ester group has been described. Some novel surface-active and peroxide-containing compounds have been obtained. Major features of the process have been investigated and main characteristics have been determined.