Method and system for the esterification of fatty acids

Abstract

Method and apparatus for esterification of fatty acids or fatty acids contained in fats and oils with lower monovalent alcohol having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, comprising combining in a reaction section the fatty acids or fatty acids contained in fats and oils, and the alcohol to form a mixture, the combining forming enlarged interphases of the mixture by high or powerful dynamic shear forces and turbulence; at least one of strong mineral acid and acid ion exchange resin being present in the reaction section or a post-reaction section; starting esterification in the reaction section under pressure of 2 to 500 bar, and reducing pressure during the esterification so that a high interphase is maintained; and the esterification is carried out in the reaction section at a temperature of 50 to 300° C.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.