Catalytic hydrogenation of C=C and C=O in unsaturated fatty acid methyl esters

Review article, 2014

Biodiesel derived from edible and non-edible oils has received much attention as a chemical feedstock or as a raw fuel alternative to the traditional diesel due to its renewability and biodegradability. However, the crude biodiesel containing large amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) is susceptible to oxidation upon exposure to heat, light, and oxygen. Catalytic hydro-genation of biodiesel has been considered as a feasible and powerful technique to improve the oxidative stability of biodiesel and hence to provide stable raw materials for industrial applications. The catalytic hydrogenation of FAMEs is a complex process but basically consists of hydrogenation of C=C or C=O, depending on the desirable properties of final products. In this review, we summarize recent developments in hydrogenation of C=C and C=O in FAMEs with focus on catalysts, reaction mechanisms, and reactor conditions. The features of hydrogenation of FAMEs are generalized and the opportunities for future research in the field are outlined.