Synthesis and characterization of some long-chain diesters with branched or bulky moieties

Several novel fatty diesters with bulky moieties were synthesized by esteri fication of mono- or bifunctional fatty acids or with mono- or bifunctional alcohols using p-toluene-sulfonic acid as catalyst. They were characterize d by H-1 and C-13 nuclear magnetic resonance as well as positive chemical i onization (PCI) mass spectrometry. The PCI mass spectra of the resulting di et diesters and diacid diesters are discussed and compared. The compounds w ere investigated as potential additives for improving the cold flow propert ies of vegetable oil esters used as biodiesel.