Optimization of Hydroxylation Reaction For Synthesis of Polyol From Epoxidized Palm Oil Methyl Ester

The utilization of vegetable oils as a feedstock for synthesis of polyol become more desirable. In particular, polyol synthesized from epoxidized oil derived from palm oil methyl ester (EPOME). Polyol can be utilized as a raw material to produce polyurethane that has many applications especially foam. Response surface methodology was performed to determine the optimum condition in the hydroxylation step. The influence of input variables temperature and reaction time on hydroxyl value and viscosity was quantified and optimal condition (high hydroxyl value) was determined. The hydroxylation reaction was conducted in a batch reactor equipped with reflux condensor. A central composite design with two independent variables and two response variables was performed to determine the influence of independent variables. The hydroxyl value of polyol increases with temperature and reaction time until achieves optimum point then decreases. The effect of independent variables on the viscosity of polyol products also shows similar result. The optimal operating condition was achieved with a temperature of 48oC and a reaction time of 3 hours.