rasvahappoetyliesterit

Rasvahappoetyyliesterit, often abbreviated as FAEEs, are a group of chemical compounds formed by the esterification of fatty acids with ethanol. Fatty acids are carboxylic acids with long aliphatic chains, and when they react with ethanol (an alcohol), they form an ester and water. This process can occur naturally or through industrial synthesis. Naturally, FAEEs are found in various biological systems, including plant oils and animal fats. In humans, FAEEs can be formed through metabolic processes, particularly in the liver.

Industrially, FAEEs are often produced from vegetable oils and animal fats, making them a renewable resource. They are widely used in a variety of applications. One of their primary uses is as a component in biodiesel fuel, where they are blended with conventional diesel to reduce emissions and improve fuel properties. FAEEs also find application as solvents in industries such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, owing to their solvency properties and relatively low toxicity. Furthermore, they can be used as plasticizers, improving the flexibility and workability of polymers. The specific properties of an FAEE depend on the type of fatty acid esterified with ethanol, with variations in chain length and saturation leading to different physical characteristics.