Synthesis and chemical modification of long chain esters from transesterification of sunflower and grape oils with fusel alcohols using Niobium Compounds as catalysts

• Grant number: 15/18539-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2015
• End date: March 31, 2016
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Organic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Eduardo Rene Perez Gonzalez
• Grantee: Mariana Samorano Corsaletti
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia (FCT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Presidente Prudente. Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This paper proposes the use of the majority of the fusel oil alcohols, mainly is amyl and isobutyl, to obtain long-chain esters from the transesterification of sunflower and grape oils catalyzed by compounds of niobium, as well as subsequent modification of these esters via epoxidation with performic acid generated in situ. The use of fusel oil - residue of the sugar industry - and Lewis acid catalysts for the transesterification reaction of triglycerides aims a clean and environmentally benign synthesis. Biofuels, and reduce environmental and economic impacts of fossil fuel use, have proven a good starting material for obtaining various compounds oleo chemicals, especially in applications in cosmetics, lubricants, additives for drinks, neuroprotective and biomarkers. The biodiesel epoxidation is an interesting chemical modification, since the epoxides participate in many reactions due to high reactivity of the oxirane ring, can be used as starting materials for the synthesis of various chemicals and intermediates such as alcohols, polymers, plasticizers and stabilizers PVC, components for lubricants, cosmetics or pharmaceutical products among others.