Influence of high energy radiation on oxidation of oleic acid and methyl oleate

Summary Gamma radiation from Cobalt 60 influences the oxidation of oleic acid and methyl oleate even at low temperatures. Determination of peroxide values, carbonyl values, and the E 1cm 1% . values at 224 mµ revealed that high peroxide values could be obtained but that secondary products are formed in appreciable quantities. The products causing absorption at 224 mµ may be α,β‐unsaturated ketones. The level of these substances can be increased by irradiation‐oxidation in the presence of metal soaps such as cobalt stearate. Irradiation‐oxidation of methyl oleate through a series of temperature ranges from 7.5°C. to 55°C. reveals a marked thermal activation effect. Peroxide values of 2000 me/kg or greater are obtained in 100 hrs. of reaction time.