Quantitative estimation of esters by thin‐layer chromatography

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A method for the analysis of fatty esters employing separation by thin‐layer chromatography and quantitative determination via their hydroxamic acids has been developed. Esters of different types are separated on silica gel plates, the spots or zones are scraped from the plates, the esters are extracted from the silica gel, and the iron hydroxamic acid complexes are formed. The latter are then measured by colorimetry. The method is suitable for analysis of mixtures of ordinary, epoxy, monohydroxy, and dihydroxy fatty esters as well as for mixtures of mono‐, di‐, and triglycerides. Used in conjunction with gas chromatography this method permits the fatty acid composition of seed oils containing oxygenated fatty acids to be measured in about 3 hours. The amount required for the total analysis is 1 to 10 mg. per determination, depending upon composition.