Selective Synthesis of Polyoxyethylene–Polyoxypropylene Block Copolymer (Poloxamer) Fatty Acid Monoesters Over Homogeneous Organotin Catalyst

Abstract

The synthesis of selected polyoxyethylene–polyoxypropylene block copolymer (poloxamer) fatty acid monoesters is presented. Organotin homogeneous catalyst Sn bis(2-ethylhexanoate) effectively catalyzed the esterification reaction of (EO)–(PO)–(EO) block copolymer (poloxamer) with fatty acids. The reaction proceeded in high yield and high selectivity to monoesters. Content of diesters in final products was below 1 wt%. The new protocol opened up a high yield and high selective method for the synthesis of poloxamer fatty acid monoesters. These products are potentially interesting for industrial applications, e.g. in lubricants, cosmetics and, in particular, as potential emulsifying agents compatible with hydrocarbon bases, such as paraffin.