Biobased Epoxy Synthesized from a Vanillin Derivative and Its Reinforcement Using Lignin-Containing Cellulose Nanofibrils

Abstract

A simple and rapid synthesis of biobased epoxy resin derived from vanillyl alcohol was performed, and its chemical structure was confirmed by FTIR and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopies. Vanillin-based epoxy resin (VE) was further reinforced by lignin-containing cellulose nanofibrils (LCNFs) with different weight ratios. Characteristics of the resin and the nanocomposites, including the curing process, chemical structure, morphology, mechanical performance, thermo-mechanical properties, and thermal degradation behavior, were studied. A significant improvement in the mechanical performance of the nanocomposites was achieved with a low level of nanofibril addition. Tensile strength and toughness increased by 81% and 185%, respectively, when 1 wt % of LCNFs were used. The nanocomposite also showed an increase in thermo-mechanical properties as measured by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and increased resistance to thermal degradation as shown by higher onset temperature and final char value in thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). This study showcased a promising approach to make environmentaly friendly sustainable biobased epoxy products with superior performance.

Recent Research Progress on Lignin-Derived Resins for Natural Fiber Composite Applications

“…This result demonstrated that the DGEBDB is a potential bio-based monomer to improve the epoxy matrix’s fire resistance. Recently, bio-based vanillyl alcohol (VA)/lignin-containing cellulose nanofibrils (LCNFs) have been developed [ 171 ]. They have used the VA epoxy resins to improve the compatibility with LCNFs.…”

Biobased superhydrophobic coating enabled by nanoparticle assembly

“…[5][6][7] One approach to build new functionality and improve performance is to fabricate biobased nanocomposites. [8][9][10][11] Nanoparticles have already been widely used to enhance the performance of the polymer matrix. Extensive research has been reported with petroleum based polymer matrices, though far fewer studies have been carried out with biobased polymer matrices.…”

Promising Mechanical, Thermal, and Ballistic Properties of Novel Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Cyperus malaccensis Sedge Fiber

“…In particular, these composites are being considered for ballistic armors [ 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 ]. More recently, several researchers have been investigating the NLF waste as a source of nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) [ 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 , 35 , 36 ], a strong nanomaterial, which can be used to produce several important products, such as nanocomposites, ion exchange membranes, films for electronics devices, and others [ 36 ].…”