Partial hydrogenation of sunflower oil: Use of edible modifiers of the cis/trans-selectivity

The partial hydrogenation of sunflower oil with minimum trans-isomer formation is studied, using a Pd/γ-alumina catalyst modified with promoters apt for human consumption: ethyl benzoate and magnesium glycinate. It was found that the hydrogenation rate diminishes with the additions of the modifiers.Regarding the cis/trans-selectivity, significant differences were found: ethyl benzoate promoted the formation of trans-isomers, whereas magnesium glycinate diminished it. The results can be interpreted in terms of different effects: change in the electron density of palladium, which affects the relative adsorption strength of the reactant, intermediates and hydrogen, and a block of part of the surface by the modifiers. Theoretical calculations were performed to support this hypothesis.

Graphical abstractTwo edible modifiers of the selectivity, magnesium glycinate and ethyl benzoate were used in the partial hydrogenation of sunflower oil on a supported-Pd catalyst. It was found that the hydrogenation rate diminishes with the additions of the modifiers. Regarding the cis/trans-selectivity, ethyl benzoate promoted the formation of trans-isomers, whereas the magnesium glycinate diminished it. Theoretical calculations are used in order to explain the experimental results.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide