The Ru−Ni bimetallic catalyst activated by high-voltage atmospheric cold plasma (HVACP) and application in the isomerization of grape seed oil

Abstract

Grape seed oil, as a high-linoleic acid type, can be used for the production of conjugated linoleic acid, which cannot be synthesized by the human body, through isomerization under the action of catalysts. Improving the activity of the catalyst is an effective way to obtain conjugated linoleic acid-rich edible oils. In this study, the Ru−Ni bimetallic catalyst was activated by high-voltage atmospheric cold plasma (HVACP) catalyst modification. The results showed that the specific surface area, pore size distribution, and average particle size of the Ru−Ni bimetallic catalyst were enhanced when the treatment condition was 180 s, the power at both ends of the plate was 150 W, and the gas composition was 5% H2/95% He. The catalyst characterization showed that the dispersion of the HVACP-treated Ru−Ni bimetallic catalyst was enhanced, which elevated the catalytic performance of the catalyst. Linoleic acid in grape seed oil was isomerized by the HVACP-treated Ru−Ni bimetallic catalyst, and grape seed oil rich in conjugated linoleic acid was obtained. The conjugated linoleic acid content, trans oleic acid content, peroxide value, and p-anisidine value were 42.52%, 0.63%, 5.01 mmol kg−1, and 12.41, respectively. Quantum chemical analysis further predicted the reaction sites and clarified the rationality of the isomerization reaction. This method provided a scientific basis for producing high-quality functional oils.