Synthesis,characterization, and thermal properties of new flavor compounds

Synthesis, characterization, and thermal properties of new, flavor, long chain esters were presented. The new compounds were obtained in the catalytic esterification process of a stoichiometric ratio of trans-3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadien-1-ol, succinic anhydride, and aliphatic chain diol. As diols ethylene glycol, 1,4-buthylene glycol, 1,5-pentylene glycol, and 1,6-hexylene glycol were applied. The spectroscopic analyses completely confirmed that the applied synthesis conditions allowed obtaining the new compounds with high yield and purity. Their thermal properties were studied in inert and oxidative atmospheres. The esters were less thermally stable in inert (IDT 186–195 °C) than in oxidative (IDT 210–228 °C) atmosphere. Two, non-completely divided decomposition steps were visible during their pyrolysis. In contrast, the new, long chain compounds decompose in three major steps in air. The analyses of the volatile products emitted during their pyrolysis indicated on the asymmetrical disrupt of their bonds. The formation of acyclic and alicyclic monoterpene hydrocarbons, succinic anhydride, diols, alcohols, alkenes, and water was observed. It indicated mainly on the β-elimination reactions during their pyrolysis. Also, β-elimination reactions of esters are mainly expected in air. Initially, it resulted in the formation of acyclic and alicyclic monoterpene hydrocarbons, hydroxyl compounds (diols, alcohols), and its β-elimination products: aldehydes, alkenes, and water. However, the presence of oxygen in the medium causes the partial decarboxylation and oxygenation of aldehydes and thus the formation of alkenes and carbon dioxide. In addition, the beginning of evaporation of succinic anhydride was detected at T _max1. At T _max2 the evaporation of succinic anhydride, their partial decarboxylation to CO₂, the small amounts of diols, alcohols, and aldehyde fragments were indicated. Finally, succinic anhydride, water, and carbon dioxide were only observed during decomposition of studied esters in air.