Arylstearic acids from oleic acid. Variables affecting the yield and properties

Summary Twenty‐six aromatic compounds were compared in the synthesis of arylstearic acids from oleic acid by the Friedel and Crafts reaction. Xylylstearic acid was the arylstearic acid obtained in the highest yield (92.4%) from technical m‐xylene and commerical oleic acid. The various side reactions are disussed including the possible conversion of oleic acid into products which on vacuum distillation of the crude arylstearic acid appear as a forerun and as a still residue. Oleic acid of about 98% purity did not improve the yield but resulted in nearly colorless, rather than yellow viscous oils. Crystalline arylstearic acids have for first time been isolated from the reaction products but only in small yields.