Synthesis and physical properties of isostearic acids and their esters

• DOI: 10.1002/ejlt.201000335
• Publication Date: 2010-10-26T10:32:22Z
• Authors: Helen L. Ngo; Robert O. Dunn; Brajendra Sharma; Thomas A. Foglia
• Keywords: Pour point; Lubricity; Cloud point

Abstract Saturated branched‐chain fatty acids (sbc‐FAs) are found as minor constituents in several natural fats and oils. Sbc‐FAs of interest since they have lower melting points than their linear counterparts exhibit good oxidative stability; properties that make them ideally suited a number applications. We (and others) previously synthesized sbc‐FAs by clay‐ or zeolite‐catalyzed isomerization unsaturated linear‐chain (ulc‐FAs) to (ubc‐FAs) were subsequently hydrogenated the desired sbc‐FAs. These acid‐catalyzed reactions, however, proceed moderate conversion selectivity. Recently, our group H‐Ferrierite zeolite catalyst isomerized ulc‐FAs high (>95%) selectivity (85%). This paper reports use this type for preparation series ester derivatives. Selected physical these branched esters such cloud point (CP) pour (PP), cold filter plugging (CFPP), viscosity index (VI), thermo‐oxidation stability, iodine value, lubricity also reported.