Mechanistic investigation in ultrasound‐assisted interesterification using non‐edible oil blends and heterogeneous catalyst

Abstract

AbstractThis study explores the mechanistic issues of ultrasound‐assisted interesterification through identification of links between physics and chemistry of the process. Notably, the interesterification reactions have been carried out using blended feedstock of non‐edible oils—keeping in view requirements for large‐scale processes. The reaction system consisted of blended non‐edible oils, methyl acetate and a solid (Cu2O) catalyst. Initial optimization of the process parameters was done using statistical design. To get insight into physical mechanism of interesterification process, reactants/products profiles in control (mechanical agitation) and test (sonication) experiments were analysed using the Langmuir–Hinshelwood–Hougen–Watson type kinetic model. The relative adsorption equilibrium constants required (to fit the kinetic model) were obtained using binary composite isotherm coupled with the non‐random two‐liquid (NRTL) model for activity coefficients. Kinetic constants of interesterification showed two times rise with sonication, while the adsorption equilibrium constants reduced slightly. Activation energy of reaction reduced from 89.04 to 66.97 kJ/mol, which is attributed to reduction in mass transfer barriers due to intense microconvection generated by sonication.