Solvent-free selective epoxidation of fatty esters over a tungsten-based catalyst

A solvent-free, rather complete and selective cis epoxidation of methyl oleate (MO) using a tungsten-containing catalyst called “Tetrakis”. High epoxide yields have been obtained by adjusting the reaction parameters (reaction time, temperature, gas phase, oxidant molar ratio and concentration). The highest selectivities are the result of a synergetic effect of hydrogen peroxide and air (or oxygen) used as oxidizing agents that decreases the MO dimerization and then favour the complete conversion of MO into its epoxide.