Vegetable oil methyl esters

Vegetable oil methyl esters (CAS 68990-52-3), also marketed under the trade name Renol, are produced by transesterification of vegetable oils. They function as biodegradable solvents, carriers, and lubricant base fluids across multiple industrial sectors.

Derived from renewable feedstocks, they offer a bio-based alternative to petroleum-derived solvents and process oils. This is particularly useful where environmental compliance or biodegradability is a procurement consideration.

In industrial and institutional cleaning formulations, they act as degreasing solvents for removing oils, greases, and soils from hard surfaces. Metalworking operations use them as base fluids or diluents in cutting oils and rolling fluids.

They are also utilized in rust-preventive coatings where low toxicity and biodegradability are required. In plastics processing, they function as plasticizer carriers and processing aids, improving dispersion and flow during compounding.

Formulators also use them as carrier solvents in agrochemical concentrates, coatings, and specialty cleaning products. These applications benefit from a slow-evaporating, bio-based solvent that meets specific industrial requirements.

Vegetable oil methyl esters are supplied as a clear to pale yellow liquid. The viscosity and fatty acid profile vary by the source oil, with soy, rapeseed, and palm being the most common feedstocks used in production.

Technical grade is the standard commercial offering for these esters. Specifications typically cover ester content, acid value, and moisture to ensure consistent performance across various manufacturing and chemical processes.

Bulk liquid supply in IBCs and road tankers is the norm for industrial buyers. This ensures efficient logistics and handling for large-scale operations requiring high volumes of these versatile bio-based chemical intermediates.