Recyclable bio-based epoxy resin thermoset polymer from wood for circular economy

Abstract

Due to their extraordinary durability and thermal stability, Epoxy Resin Thermosets (ERTs) are essential in various industries. However, their poor recyclability leads to unacceptable environmental pollution. In this study, Wu et al. successfully synthesized a completely bio-based ERT using lignocellulose-derived building blocks which exhibit outstanding thermal and mechanical properties. Remarkably, these bio-materials degrade via methanolysis without the need of any catalyst, presenting a smart and cost-effective recycling strategy. Furthermore, this approach could be employed for fabricating reusable composites comprising glass fiber and plant fiber, thereby expanding its applications in sustainable transportation, coatings, paints or biomedical devices.

Keywords

• Epoxy resin thermosets
• Lignocellulose
• Methanolysis
• Bio-based material