Conversion of the Free Fatty Acids of Cod Oil to Methyl Esters in situ

Abstract

The application of 2,2-dimethoxypropane to the in situ conversion of the free fatty acids of cod oil to methyl esters is successful in reducing the free fatty acid content to the order of 1%. This material, in the presence of a suitable acid catalyst, serves both as a water scavenger and a source of methanol for the esterification. Of the catalysts examined, methanolic HCl gives the best results. Purification procedures giving a stable product are outlined.