BioMatNet Item: AIR3-CT94-2218 - Reactivity of Fatty Esters and Glycerol : New Methods

AIR3-CT94-2218
Reactivity of Fatty Esters and Glycerol : New Methods

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AIR Cluster IV - Oils and Fats : Chemical Conversion : Paints/Coatings/Plastics : Vegetable Oil/Fat

	Contract No	AIR3-CT94-2218
	Total Cost	1 897 150
	EC Contribution	1 300 000
	Start Date	01/12/1994
	Duration	36 months

SUMMARY

The aim of this programme is to develop methyl esters of vegetable oils and glycerol for new industrial applications. The overall approach covers three related topics. Objectives include identification of new products and new uses for materials produced from biological raw material, such as cross esterification of lignocellulosic wastes (eg, sawdust) or the use of derivatives of low grade glycerin in polyurethanes. Another approach focuses on epoxy derivatives of rapeseed oil and a third covers new derivatives for traditional applications under the generic term of surface active chemicals. The emphasis is placed on new processes and functions which can be associated with expansion of non-food uses of vegetable oils in Europe, in particular within the framework of the industrial set aside reforms. The results achieved so far are presented in terms of these three distinct themes.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this programme is to develop the methyl esters of vegetable oils, and glycerol, for new industrial applications, according to innovative and environmentally friendly means.

The choice of the participants was directed by the interest in the industrial applications, to the sights of the expertise of 2 industrial partners and of 2 specialized technical centres. Participants are accustomed moreover to working together or in sub-groups.

Tasks envisaged can be gathered in 3 topics of a general nature:

New products, new uses, through the production of agromaterial by cross esterification on wooden sawdusts, through the use of derivatives of rough glycerin in polyurethanes.
Obtaining new synthons through the analysis of epoxy rapeseed oil.
Search for new derivatives for traditional applications listed under the generic term of surface-active chemicals, with a variable and controlled "HLB" balance.

The accent is put on the new conditions and functions of the derivatives. These issues are important because they are connected with the expansion of the development of non food uses of oils in Europe, in particular within the framework of the industrial set-aside reforms.

Contacts

Coordinator

ING Jacques PARMENTIER / Societe Robbe FRANCE

EC Scientific Officer

Ciarán MANGAN / European Commission - DG Research Quality of Life Programme - Unit B1.2 / BELGIUM

Participant