Estered

Estered is a nonstandard or informal term that describes a molecule that has undergone esterification, i.e., that contains one or more ester functional groups (R-COOR'). In formal chemistry, the preferred term is esterified or the compound is described as an ester.

Esterification is typically a condensation reaction between a carboxylic acid and an alcohol, often catalyzed by an acid such as sulfuric acid. The general equation: R-COOH + R'-OH ⇌ R-COOR' + H2O. The reaction is equilibrium-driven; water removal or use of dehydrating conditions shifts toward the ester. Common methods include Fischer esterification, the use of acid chlorides with alcohols, or DCC coupling. Transesterification converts existing esters to different esters, often used in biodiesel production.

Applications include forming esters in organic synthesis for solvents, fragrances, or pharmaceutical intermediates. In polymer chemistry, esters form polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In biodiesel production, fats and oils undergo transesterification with methanol or ethanol to yield methyl or ethyl esters and glycerol.

Terminology and clarity: Because "estered" is uncommon and potentially ambiguous, most writers prefer "esterified" or descriptions that specify the presence of ester groups. When precise meaning is required, it is best to use established terms to describe the chemical state of the compound.