Fatty acids, fatty alcohols, and wax esters from<i>Limnanthes douglassi</i> (Meadowfoam) seed oil

Abstract

Abstract Limanathes douglasii seed oil glycerides contain fatty acids which predominantly (97%) have 20 or more carbon atoms. Fatty acids were prepared by saponification; fatty alcohols, by sodium reduction of the glycerides; and liquid wax esters, by p ‐toluenesulfonic acid‐catalyzed reaction of the fatty acids with the fatty alcohols. Solid waxes were prepared by hydrogenation of the glyceride oil and of the wax esters. Chemical and physical constants were determined for Limnanthes douglasii seed oil and its derivatives. The liquid wax esters had properties very similar to those of jojoba ( Simmondsia chinensis ) seed oil. The solid hydrogenated wax ester was identical in physical appearance and melting point to hydrogenated jojoba seed oil.