Derivatives are typically non-toxic and safe; they’re applicable across a wide range of sectors. Chemists may produce fatty acid derivatives using chemical processes such as hydrogenation and dehydrogenation. Because of their flexibility and environmental friendliness, these derivatives have a considerable market. In light of the fact that petroleum reserves will eventually run out, there is an increasing interest in developing alternatives to petroleum products. Some petroleum products may be replaced with fatty acid derivatives that are better for the environment. Technological advancements in the manufacturing of fatty acid derivatives are expanding the range of possible uses for these compounds. The bio lubricant industry is expected to grow as a result of the use of the fatty acid derivatives. So, let’s learn the meaning, structure and types of fatty acid derivatives.
What is a fatty acid derivative?
A fatty acid is a chemical molecule with a hydrocarbon chain and a carboxylate group at the end. Fatty acids are insoluble in water, but they are extremely soluble in organic solvents such as ethers and ketones. There are several sources of fatty acids, such as vegetable oils and coconut oils. However, most of them come from natural sources. Hydrogenation, dehydrogenation and isomerisation are just a few of the chemical processes that may be used to create a fatty acid derivative.
Structure of Fatty Acids
The hydrocarbon chains of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids may have double bonds or no double bonds. There are kinks and bends in the molecules when double bonds are present, which affects the ability of fatty acid chains to stack. As unsaturated fatty acids show a lower melting point in comparison to saturated fatty acids, the existence of a double bond will also affect the melting point.
Another factor that affects the melting point is the number of carbon atoms in the compound; a compound with an odd number of carbons will have a higher melting point. It is also important to note that saturated fatty acids are more stable than unsaturated fatty acids.
Types of Fatty Acids Derivatives
Based on their chemical structure, there are two types – saturated and unsaturated fatty acids derivatives. Carbon atoms are linked to two hydrogen atoms in a chain of saturated fatty acids, which lack double bonds. Saturated fatty acids include butanoic acid, hexanoic acid, and octanoic acid, to name a few. On the other hand, unsaturated fatty acid contains monounsaturated fatty acids (mono), polyunsaturated (poly), trans (trans).
What are the applications of Fatty Acid Derivatives?
The market for the fatty acid derivative is segmented by industry, including pharmaceuticals, personal care, food, textiles, paint, rubber, and other industries making up the most prominent segments. Lipid formulations are widely used in the pharmaceutical industry to transport active ingredients. Anticonvulsant medications often include derivatives of fatty acids. Lotions, soaps, conditioners, infant care items, and other personal care items all include these derivatives.
There are several applications for amides and nitrogenous fatty acid derivatives in sectors such as printing inks. Polyol esters, which are fatty acid derivatives, are employed in high-energy supplement products in the food sector. Bio lubricants often include the fatty acid derivative. These lubricants are used by manufacturers.
When it comes to surfactants and additives, fatty acid derivatives are a popular choice because of their significance in human health and product manufacturing. Fatty acid derivatives are used in a wide variety of applications, much as the original forms of these acids. A few fatty acid derivatives examples are:
- Oils, greases, and other lubricants
- Products for personal hygiene
- Coatings and paints:
- Supplements for a healthy diet
Depending on your needs, you may rely on the fatty acid derivative in every sector, from textiles and rubber to plastics and food and beverage. If you want to manufacture high-quality items but lack specialised knowledge, there is a solution out there for you.
Conclusion
A wide variety of biological signalling pathways rely on fatty acids. Consuming polyunsaturated fatty acids may lead to the production of strong signalling mediators from lipid peroxidation products. Triacylglycerols are fatty acids that play a significant role in signal-transduction pathways, cellular fuel sources, hormone and lipid composition, protein modification, and energy storage in adipose tissue (specialised fat cells). There is a lot of research still going on about fatty acids, their derivatives, and their future development.