Abstract: Copper compositions that are useful as hydrogenation catalysts are disclosed. In particular, the copper compounds are catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of oils that contain unsaturated fatty acyl components such as unsaturated vegetable oils. Methods of preparing the copper compositions are also disclosed. Methods of hydrogenating unsaturated compositions that contain at least two sites of unsaturation using the hydrogenation catalysts, along with products obtained from the hydrogenation reactions described herein are also disclosed.

Abstract: A process for the hydrogenation of a polyunsaturated oil, wherein said oil is reacted with hydrogen in the presence of a copper-chromium containing catalyst at a temperature of from about 200 to 300° C. and a pressure of from about 300 to 500 psig, for 3-8 hours. The reaction results in a product having a monounsaturated fatty acid percent conversion (i.e., monounsaturated fatty acid content) of from about 60-90%, preferably from about 70-90% and most preferably, from about 80-90%. The copper-chromium catalyst may also be recovered and reused without regeneration or further treatment prior to reuse.

Abstract: A process for the hydrogenation of a polyunsaturated oil, wherein said oil is reacted with hydrogen in the presence of a copper-chromium containing catalyst at a temperature of from about 200 to 300° C. and a pressure of from about 300 to 500 psig, for 3-8 hours. The reaction results in a product having a monounsaturated fatty acid percent conversion (i.e., monounsaturated fatty acid content) of from about 60-90%, preferably from about 70-90% and most preferably, from about 80-90%. The copper-chromium catalyst may also be recovered and reused without regeneration or further treatment prior to reuse.

Abstract: A process uses a water repellant material in order to enhance the water resistance of composite. The process begins with a saturated vegetable or animal fat triglyceride having a low iodine value. The triglyceride is melted to form a sprayable liquid. The sprayable triglyceride and a bonding agent are applied to the fibrous materials, preparatory to a press binding. Then, the sprayed fibrous material is subjected to a hot press cycle in order to form a bonded fibrous composition. The low Iodine Value triglyceride may be selected from a group including hydrogenated vegetable oil, palm oil, stearine, winterized low IV fractions, soy stearine, animal fat, hydrogenated animal fat, and fractionated fats or blends of these materials.