Recent advances in bio-based epoxy resins and curing agents
A review by researchers from Department of Chemical Engineering, Rowan University, encompasses recent developments using bio-based epoxy resins and bio-based epoxy curing agents.
The combination of awareness of harmful industrial processes and environmental issues and depleting petroleum-based resources has spurred much research in developing materials from renewable sources. Epoxy resins are common pre-polymers used in a variety of industries, such as adhesives, coatings, insulations, and high performance composites.
Focus on thermal and mechanical properties
To transform epoxy resins into crosslinked networks with desirable thermal and mechanical properties, the resins must be cured with a curing agent. This review encompasses recent developments using bio-based epoxy resins and curing agents. Resins and curing agents synthesised from modified plant oils, sugars, polyphenols, terpenes, rosin, natural rubber, and lignin are highlighted and their thermal and mechanical properties reviewed.
The study is published in: J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44103.
