| abstract |
The present invention provides a method for preparing a monoester of β-erythritol and a fatty acid; the method comprises: subjecting a fatty acid and erythritol to an esterification reaction, in the presence of an acid catalyst and a water-carrying agent, and an optional phase transfer catalyst, wherein the molar ratio of the fatty acid to the erythritol is 1:2 to 1:3, with the temperature of the esterification reaction being 80-100°C. Additionally, the present invention also provides a method for preparing a diester of 2,3-erythritol and a fatty acid; the method comprises: subjecting a fatty acid and erythritol to an esterification reaction, in the presence of an acid catalyst and a water-carrying agent, wherein the molar ratio of the fatty acid to the erythritol is 2:1 to 3:1, with the temperature of the esterification reaction being 120-160°C. |