Advances in the Epoxidation of Non-Edible Oils: Prileschajew Reaction, Hydroxylation, and Hydrolysis for DHSA Production

Growing environmental pressures and uncertainties in fossil-based resources have intensified efforts to convert non-edible oils into value-added bio-based chemicals such as dihydroxystearic acid (DHSA).This review synthesises recent developments in the epoxidation of non-edible oils by outlining key reaction pathways, including Prileschajew oxidation, hydroxylation, and hydrolysis, and examining approaches to enhance oxirane formation while minimising undesirable ring-opening side reactions.Particular attention is given to sustainable catalytic systems and optimised reaction conditions that improve selectivity and overall process performance.By integrating these findings, the review highlights the progress made toward translating laboratory-scale epoxidation studies into viable industrial applications, especially in cosmetics, biopolymers, and other emerging bio-based sectors.