Catalytic epoxidation of palm oil‐derived oleic acid using <scp> TiO ₂ </scp> : A sustainable approach

Abstract Studies using sustainable and environmentally friendly raw materials are prominent among researchers due to rising environmental concerns. Oleic acid was epoxidized using performic acid, generated in situ through the reaction between formic acid and hydrogen peroxide. This study investigated the effects of key parameters, including the type of oil, stirring speed, reaction temperature, and molar ratios of formic acid and hydrogen peroxide to oleic acid, on the efficiency of the epoxidation process. The highest relative conversion to oxirane of 82% was achieved under optimal conditions, with a molar ratio of 2:1.5 (formic acid to hydrogen peroxide), a temperature of 50°C, and a stirring speed of 450 rpm. The existence of the epoxide group was proved through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, where the peak was observed at a wavenumber of 938.68 cm −1 . Additionally, numerical simulations employing a genetic algorithm demonstrated strong alignment with experimental results, offering valuable insights into process optimization for improved epoxide production.