Polyglycerols and their derivatives have a broad range of applications (Table 1). MPOB has developed a process to produce polyglycerols (Figure 1) by microwave heating with a substantially reduced reaction time. Glycerol is polymerized at elevated temperatures, preferably 250ºC-270ºC, in the presence of a catalyst. However, a drawback is the tendency to produce highly coloured products, when light colour is desired, especially in the food and cosmetics industries. So, the product has to be bleached.

Main Research: Norin Zamiah Kassim Shaari