Ethylmethyldioxirane epoxidation of Plukenetia cononophora oil

Abstract

Epoxidation of Plukenetia conophora oil by ethylmethyldioxirane has been studied. The epoxidation reaction was best accomplished using the Curci's biphasic method employing 2-butanone as the solvent. Spectroscopic techniques (IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR) indicated complete conversion of double bonds to epoxy groups. Overall, Oxone™ can be said to be an inexpensive oxidant that is easily handled and with demonstrated utility in preparing epoxidised oils from natural triglycerides. © 2007 Chemical Society of Ethiopia.