Tall Oil Fatty Acid (TOFA) is a byproduct derived from the chemical processing of wood, particularly the pulping of pine trees. It is a mixture of fatty acids, primarily composed of oleic acid and linoleic acid, along with smaller amounts of other fatty acids and rosin acids.

Chemical Information:

• Composition: Typically, TOFA contains about 40-60% oleic acid, 25-45% linoleic acid, and 5-10% rosin acids.

• CAS Number: 61790-12-3

• Appearance: Light yellow to amber-colored liquid.

• Odor: Characteristic, slightly woody smell.

• Solubility: Insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like alcohols and hydrocarbons.

Production:

TOFA is obtained during the Kraft process, which is a method of converting wood into wood pulp, the main component of paper. The tall oil, which is a byproduct of this process, is further refined to produce tall oil fatty acids.

Key Properties:

• High Unsaturation: The high content of unsaturated fatty acids (oleic and linoleic acids) gives TOFA good reactivity in various chemical processes.

• Acid Value: Typically ranges from 190 to 200 mg KOH/g.

• Iodine Value: Reflects the degree of unsaturation, typically ranging from 125 to 145.

Applications:

1. Chemical Intermediates:

• Dimer Acids: TOFA is used as a raw material to produce dimer acids, which are important in making polyamides and other polymers.

• Alkyd Resins: It is a key ingredient in the production of alkyd resins used in coatings, paints, and varnishes, offering good adhesion, gloss, and flexibility.

• Esters: TOFA is esterified to produce a variety of esters used as plasticizers, lubricants, and surfactants.

2. Soaps and Detergents:

• Soap Production: TOFA is used in the manufacture of metal soaps, which are employed as driers in paints, lubricating grease thickeners, and as stabilizers in plastics.

• Detergents: The fatty acids in TOFA are saponified to produce soap and detergent ingredients.

3. Rubber Industry:

• Processing Aids: Acts as a processing aid and softener in rubber compounding, enhancing the flexibility and durability of rubber products.

4. Textile Industry:

• Emulsifiers and Wetting Agents: TOFA is used in the formulation of textile chemicals, such as emulsifiers and wetting agents, improving the processing and finishing of textiles.

5. Fuel Additives:

• Biofuels: TOFA can be used as a feedstock for biodiesel production, contributing to the renewable energy sector.

6. Corrosion Inhibitors:

• Metal Treatment: TOFA derivatives are used in the formulation of corrosion inhibitors, particularly for protecting metal surfaces in industrial applications.

7. Lubricants:

• Base Oils and Additives: TOFA is used as a component in the formulation of lubricants, particularly in metalworking fluids and other industrial lubricants, due to its film-forming properties and resistance to oxidation.

Safety and Handling:

• Handling Precautions: Generally considered safe to handle, but it is advisable to use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles to avoid skin and eye contact.

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition. Keep containers tightly closed to prevent oxidation and contamination.

Environmental Impact:

• Biodegradability: TOFA is biodegradable and is considered less harmful to the environment compared to synthetic chemicals.

• Sustainability: As a byproduct of the wood pulping process, TOFA is a more sustainable alternative to petrochemical-derived fatty acids.

Tall Oil Fatty Acid is a versatile and renewable resource with a wide range of industrial applications, particularly valued for its chemical reactivity, biodegradability, and contribution to sustainable products.

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