Fatty Acid Methyl Esters

Fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) are products that are produced by an alkali-catalyzed reaction between fats or fatty acids and methanol. In biodiesel, fatty acid methyl esters are the primary constituent, usually obtained from vegetable oils by transesterification.

In solvent applications, they are known as “green solvents” because fatty acid methyl esters are biodegradable, produce low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and are non-toxic to humans. They can replace solvents considered to be less environmentally friendly or that pose exposure hazards.

Fatty acid methyl ester characteristics include high boiling points, good lubricity and excellent solubility in organic solvents. Fatty acid methyl esters like methyl soyate, methyl canolate, methyl laurate and methyl caprylate, among others, are versatile products covering a wide range of product uses including: lubricants, metalworking fluids, emulsifiers, solvents, fuels, agriculture, surfactants, polymers, coatings, cleaners and food applications.

Univar: The Go-To Source for Methyl Esters

Univar is a distributor of a wide range of fatty acid methyl esters from plant sources, including soy-based (methyl soyate) and palm-based esters and their various fractions. Products are available as private label, tech grade and non-GMO.

In addition to fatty acid methyl esters, we can supply specialty esters based on glycerol, polyethylene glycol, sorbitan and pentaerythritol.

Univar offers a network of 120+ wholly-owned facilities in the United States with bulk tank, rail car, blending and packaging infrastructure and capabilities to supply methyl esters in:

• Bulk railcar
• Bulk tank truck
• Totes (IBC)
• Drums
• Pails

 Our capabilities include:

• Efficient private fleet with dedicated drivers servicing local regions
• Partnership with world-class suppliers offering various manufacturing sites and production processes
• Experienced sales force with broad product and market knowledge
• Custom formulas and special blending services available through technical services

View our methyl ester products below or contact us for a quote.

Fatty Acid Methyl Esters offer green chemical solution