Eco-Efficient Hydrolysis of Coconut Oil: A Continuous Hydrothermal and Water-Only Process for the Production of Oleochemicals. Green Chem. 2026.
Menalla, E.; Martin, D.; Vaquerizo, L.; Tester, J. W.; Cocero, M. J.; Cantero, D.
From energy generation to manufacturing, petroleum is essential for many aspects of modern living. Unfortunately, petroleum is non-renewable (there is only so much of it before it eventually runs out), causes significant environmental damage, is hazardous to our health, and is arguably one of the largest contributors to climate change. Since petroleum use has such negative effects, but is necessary for many aspects of life, there is a need for greener, much better alternatives.
An up-and-coming alternative to petroleum-based chemicals are oleochemicals; ‘oleo’ meaning ‘oil’ and ‘chemicals’. Thus, oleochemicals are compounds derived from oils (usually plant-based oils). These are part of several initiatives in the chemistry community (green chemistry initiatives) to move away from non-renewable, dangerous, high energy consumption materials and toward renewable, less dangerous materials whenever possible in chemistry research. Scientists are developing a more eco-efficient way to get oleochemicals from coconut oil using superhot, highly pressurized water; a faster method that is more energy and resource efficient, and doesn’t require the use of hazardous chemicals.
