Cross-metathesis of technical grade methyl oleate for the synthesis of bio-based polyesters and polyamides

Fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), despite being currently used mainly as a biodiesel, could be also a source of various building blocks. Their cross-metathesis allows the production of diesters—attractive bio-based monomers. However, most of the existing reports from academic research groups are mainly restricted to pure methyl oleate. With the goal of future industrial feasibility, a process for the self-cross metathesis of technical grade methyl oleate, which means containing a significant amount (20 wt%) of methyl linoleate, has been developed. The resulting dimethyl octadec-9-enedioate has been obtained with high selectivity and in good yield. Subsequent polycondensation with a co-monomer (diol or diamine) resulted in the formation of polymeric materials which were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry.