A route to multi-product oleochemical production in Alberta

The Challenge

Petrochemicals typically have a higher carbon footprint than oleochemicals, which negatively impact our environment.

The Project

Establish the base processes for a multi-product oleochemical production facility in Alberta. This would involve the research team’s recently proposed step-wise chemical route to convert unsaturated plant oils, primarily canola oil, into a new generation of biobased polyols with high hydroxyl functionality and high reactivity.

The Results

Alkanolamides, a desirable oleochemical, was developed – along with a lipid epoxy resin through the production of a biobased curing agent.

Grower Benefits

Local oleochemical production could add value and diversify markets to the oilseed industry.