Optimization of nanofiber‐caproate/laurate esters synthesis, their characterization, and usage as emulsifier in o/w emulsion

Abstract

The aim of this study is to optimize the esterification of nanofibers with caproyl/lauroyl chlorides at different substitution degrees' (DS) and to investigate the usage of nanofiber derivatives in model emulsions. First, cellulosic material was obtained and milled into nanofibers using a micro‐fluidizer. Then, these nanofibers were esterified with caproyl/lauroyl chlorides in a solvent of DMAc/LiCl with DMAP as an acid scavenger. The esterification of nanofibers with caproyl/lauroyl chlorides was optimized for fatty acid chloride mole and reaction time. Esterification reactions were carried out at 80°C with various molar ratios of acyl chlorides (3–15 moles) versus anhydroglucose unit of nanofibers and for various time durations (30–360 min). The hydrophobic derivatives with DS in the range of 0.34–2.77 were successfully obtained. Using the data obtained as a result of the optimization, nanofiber‐fatty acid esters with different DS (0.50–2.75) were produced and characterized. Analyzes showed that the esterification process was successful and as the degree of esterification increased, the crystallinity index and thermal stability of the derivatives decreased. Then, the nanofiber‐caproate/laurate esters with different DS were used as emulsifier (0.5 wt%) in an oil‐in‐water model emulsion containing 25 wt% oil and the emulsions were analyzed. The nanofiber caproate/laurate esters with a DS of 0.50–1.25 were suitable for o/w emulsions, while samples with a DS of 2.00 and above were not found suitable. Emulsions prepared by using nanofiber derivatives with 1.25 DS had higher G′ and G″ and viscosity values and lower droplet sizes than those of other group.