Isostearic Acid: A Unique Fatty Acid with Great Potential

Abstract

Vegetable oils and animal fats are important and established raw materials for the production of chemicals and ingredients. From its origins more than 150 years ago, the oleochemical industry has grown in scale and diversity to become an important branch of the chemical industry. With increasing emphasis on renewable and sustainable industrial practices, oleochemistry has gained a new momentum as a means to develop alternatives to fossil-derived products. This chapter reviews the role of catalysis and catalyst development in the production of isostearic acid, as an example of recent research in oleochemistry. Starting with a brief history of the oleochemical industry, we trace the development of isostearic acid and other branched fatty acids. The special properties of isostearic acid are illustrated through its use in applications inaccessible to standard fatty acids. Finally, we present the latest developments in zeolite catalysis; the step change in yields and selectivities achieved by these new routes illustrates the potential that proper catalyst design can bring to open up significant new markets and applications for oleochemicals.