Palm Oil and its Applications in Oleochemicals Industries: an Overview

Dr. Adel Gabr Abdel-RazekFats and Oils Dept.,

National Research Centre

Dokki, Cairo, Egypt

Definition:

They are analogous to petrochemicals derived from petroleum.

1973

Animal FatsShortageCows Mad,H5N1Indo, Halal

Vegetable OilsSeasonal, Soft,Hydrogenation, Trans, Health

What is palm oil? Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from pulping the fruit of oilpalms originally native to Africa. Palm oil is commonly used as a cookingoil in Africa, Southeast Asia and parts of Brazil and its consumption is onthe rise worldwide. Palm oil is semi-solid at room temperatures .

Ancient History of Oleochemicals

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Palm oil is an important oil in the oils/fats marketVery versatile – many potential applications Some applications compete with petro-based productsOleochemical products can compete in terms ofperformance and cost.Oleochemicals are a key component of the integratedbiorefinery conceptOleochemicals could be the best initial bridge between the biorefinery and the petrochemical refineryIntegrating biodiesel production with production of chemicals provides an economically attractive process approachNew uses for glycerol will help drive greater biodiesel production