Microwave-assisted catalytic transfer hydrogenation of safflower oil

Catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH) of safflower oil was studied using aqueous ammonium formate as hydrogen donor and palladium on carbon as catalyst in a closed vessel under controlled microwave irradiation conditions. The method offered good selectivity in complete reduction of linoleic acid to monounsaturated acid with a slight increase in stearic acid compared to other reported catalytic transfer hydrogenation methods. Selectivity was achieved by using microwave-assisted CTH without employing an emulsifier or high ratios of water to oil.