Micro-emulsion process for the preparation of sucrose esters

Abstract

A new process, based on micro-emulsion technology, has been developed for the production of sucrose esters of fatty acids. Sucrose dissolved in propylene glycol, methyl stearate, sodium stearate, and catalyst (K 2CO 3) are combined to form a transparent emulsion and interacted. The system remains transparent throughout the distillation of the propylene glycol, indicating the formation of a micro dispersion of sucrose. Upon completion of the distillation all of the methyl stearate is converted to sucrose stearate. Starting with a 1.5:1.0:0.9 molar ratio of sucrose, methyl stearate, and sodium stearate, the reaction product, after purification, is 85% sucrose monostearate, 15% sucrose distearate. © 1967 American Oil Chemists' Society.