Catalytic Synthesis of Monoglycerides by Glycerolysis of Triglycerides

Abstract

The synthesis of monoglycerides by the transesterification of triglycerides with glycerol was studied using zinc glycerolate as a heterogeneous catalyst. The effect of the operating variables on the triglyceride conversion and monoglyceride yield was evaluated. The maximum values of triglyceride conversion and monoglyceride yield reached at 2-hour reaction time were 83 and 49 %, respectively. These values were obtained at 240 °C with 3 % catalyst loading and glycerol/oil molar ratio of 6. When the molar ratio of the reactants was increased, the triglyceride conversion and monoglyceride yield achieved an optimum value. This behavior was related with a competitive adsorption of the reagents. It was possible to reuse the catalyst without significant changes in activity.