Synthesis of biodiesel without formation of free glycerol

Article abstract of DOI:10.1134/S1070428015070039

A new approach to the synthesis of biodiesel has been developed on the basis of alcoholysis of a triglyceride in combination with acetalization of glycerol with lower carbonyl compounds or acetals derived therefrom. A model synthesis of biodiesel not involving free glycerol has been accomplished using rapeseed oil and acid catalysts, as well as without a catalyst under generation of ethanol supercritical fluid; in the latter case, monoalkyl glycerol ethers are formed in addition to the expected cyclic ketals.