Optimization of epoxidized methyl acetoricinoleate synthesis with ionic liquid catalysts using the response surface methodology

Epoxidized methyl acetoricinoleate (EMAR) was generated by epoxidation of methyl acetoricinoleate (MAR) in the presence of formic acid and hydrogen peroxide by using ionic liquids as catalysts, and the product was characterized by means of infrared spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The efficiencies of four different catalysts, 1-methylimidazole hydrogen sulfate salt ([Hmim]HSO4), 1-methylpyrrolidone hydrogen sulfate salt ([Hnmp]HSO4), phosphoric acid, and sulfuric acid, were compared. The effects of the formic acid/MAR molar ratio, hydrogen peroxide/MAR molar ratio, reaction temperature, reaction time, and catalyst dosage on the epoxy value of EMAR were investigated by single-factor experiments.