Synthesis of isoamyl laurate and isoamyl stearate in supercritical carbon dioxide.

The synthesis of isoamyl laurate and isoamyl stearate was studied in supercritical carbon dioxide with three lipases, Novozym 435, Lipolase 100T, and Candida rugosa. The maximum conversion of 37% and 53%, respectively for isoamyl laurate and isoamyl stearate was obtained when Novozym 435 was used. The effect of various parameters such as molar ratio of alcohol to acid, presence of water, time and temperature was investigated. An optimum temperature of 40-45 degrees C was observed for all reactions. The kinetics of reactions was fast and equilibrium was achieved in 2-3 h. Although the presence of excess alcohol did not reduce conversion, excess water reduced conversion significantly.