Processes for preparing linear polyglycerols and polyglycerol esters
US6620904B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 6, 2001 |
| Grant date | Sep 16, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC07C67/03
- WIPO fieldOrganic fine chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Applicant has discovered processes for preparing polyglycerols and polyglycerol esters in high yield and with minimal formation of cyclic polyglycerols and cyclic polyglycerol esters. Furthermore, the processes of this invention produce a high proportion of linear polyglycerols and polyglycerol esters. The linear polyglycerols have very desirable physical characteristics, including a clear appearance at melt, a desirable Gardner color, a mild odor, and a bland taste. The polyglycerols and polyglycerol esters prepared by the method of the present invention are well suited for use as cosmetic and food additives. Since few, if any, cyclic polyglycerols and polyglycerol esters are formed by the processes of this invention, costly and time consuming distillation steps to remove such by-products are not needed. More specifically, applicants have discovered that if a calcium containing compound, such as calcium hydroxide, is used in place of potassium or sodium hydroxide during polymerization of glycerol, polyglycerol, or a mixture thereof or esterification of polyglycerols, the formation of cyclic polyglycerols is greatly reduced. One embodiment of the invention is a method of preparing …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.