Synthesis and characterization of some long‐chain diesters with branched or bulky moieties

Abstract

Abstract Several novel fatty diesters with bulky moieties were synthesized by esterification of mono‐ or bifunctional fatty acids or with mono‐ or bifunctional alcohols using p ‐toluenesulfonic acid as catalyst. They were characterized by 1 H and 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance as well as positive chemical ionization (PCl) mass spectrometry. The PCl mass spectra of the resulting diol diesters and diacid diesters are discussed and compared. The compounds were investigated as potential additives for improving the cold flow properties of vegetable oil esters used as biodiesel.