SINGLE-PHASE PROCESS FOR PRODUCTION OF FATTY ACID METHYL ESTERS FROM MIXTURES OF TRIGLYCERIDES AND FATTY ACIDS

摘要

A process for the esterification of a mixture of fatty acids andtriglycerides. The process comprises forming a singlephase solution of fatty acids and triglyceride in an alcohol selected frommethanol and ethanol, the ratio of said alcohol to triglyceridebeing 15:1 to 35:1. The solution further comprises a co-solvent in an amountto form the single phase. In a first step, an acid catalystfor the esterification of the fatty acids is added. After a period of time,the acid catalyst is neutralised and a base catalyst for thetransesterification of triglycerides is added. After a further period of time,esters are separated from the solution.