Patents
The invention provides a novel transesterification catalyst having the general formula: wherein R is tertiary-butyl and M is a transition metal ion selected from Fe, Co and Cr, x varies from 0 to 0.5, y varies from 3-5 and n is 10 or 12. The above said catalyst is useful for an efficient transesterification of glycerides, fatty acid esters and cyclic carbonates on reactions with alcohols. The invention also relates to a process for transesterification using these catalysts. Co-existence of Zn and Fe in the active site linking through cyano bridges makes it efficient for transesterification reactions. The catalyst could be separated easily by centrifugation or by simple filtration and reused. The catalyst is highly efficient and only a small amount (1 wt% of oil) is needed to carryout the reaction at moderate conditions.