A mathematical model has been developed using a digital computer for the calculation of the isomerization index for partially hydrogenated oils such as cottonseed, soybean, peanut or corn oil. The isomerization index is defined as the ratio of the rate of geometrical isomerization of an unsaturated group to the rate of hydrogenation. Isomerization indices from about 0.3 to 11 were found to occur for hydrogenations using commercial nickel catalysts. Calculation of both an isomerization index and a selectivity ratio will be useful methods of quantitatively characterizing the partial hydrogenation of triglyceride oils or the type of hydrogenation which can be obtained by various catalysts.

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