Emulsifiers from solid and liquid polyols: different strategies for obtaining optimum conversions and selectivities

Abstract

The present paper provides a general overview of the factors involved in both the kinetics and the selectivity of partial acylation reactions of polyols (sugars). Different kinetic strategies for maximum production of intermediate esters of various polyols and monosaccharides are reported and discussed. Physicochemical requirements for obtaining maximum selectivities and complementary strategies for reducing reaction times are discussed. The reactions studied include glycerol, glucose, fructose, mannose, sorbitol and an alkyl glucoside as precursors. The high selectivity towards the monoglyceride in the presence and absence of a solvent has been attributed to a combination of the precipitation of the desired ester, use of glycerol in excess and the relatively low solubility of the fatty acid in the system. Unlike the reaction in the presence of a solvent, the reaction in a solvent-free medium produces the diester first. The monoester only accumulates in the medium as a consequence of disproportionation and glycerolysis reactions of the diester formed earlier. Selective esterification of solid sugars (polyols) which have an intermediate solubility in acetone is favored at low temperatures at which a sufficient amount of polyol dissolves and concurrent precipitation of the desired product can be achieved. By contrast, use of elevated temperatures is more appropriate for selective partial esterification of polyols, which are the most soluble in the solvent employed. Polyols (sugars) which are the less soluble into the liquid reaction phase cannot be easily esterified. Diffusional limitations on the rate of dissolution of the solid precursor can be minimized by increasing the surface area of the solid polyol.