The effect of trans‐isomers on the physical properties of hydrogenated oils

Data have been presented which indicate a positive relationship between the trans ‐isomer content of a hydrogenated oil and the congeal point, Wiley melting‐point, and solids index. It has also been shown that cottonseed oil and soybean oil undergo substantially the same type of reaction under identical hydrogenating conditions. This conclusion is based on the relationship of trans ‐isomer formation to total reduction in unsaturation up to the point that equilibrium is reached and saturation of the trans ‐isomers occurs. This equilibrium was noted at between 60–70 iodine value. The relationship of trans ‐isomer formation to the total reduction in double bonds can be expressed as the hydrogenation index. This is a reliable indication of the type of reaction taking place up to the point where appreciable hydrogenation of the trans ‐isomers occur.