On-demand and Fast Recyclable Bio-epoxy

Abstract

Thermoset applications that require high mechanical and chemical stability during service life, such as windmill blades and airplanes, do not allow for biodegradability that degrades naturally over time. In this study, we developed an eco-friendly epoxy resin that maintains high chemical and mechanical stability in normal times but can be chemically decomposed under certain conditions when we want. The new bio-based EP was prepared from vanillin and raspberry ketone via an L-proline-catalyzed aldol condensation reaction. The bio-based EP exhibited excellent tensile strength (58 MPa), flexural strength (183 MPa). In addition, CFRP prepared by using synthesized EP exhibited excellent tensile strength (957 MPa), Young’s modulus (77 GPa), and interlaminar shear strength (49 MPa). Very interestingly, the synthesized EP and CFRP applicants were very rapidly degraded only under specific conditions. Therefore, this study is expected to give a great insight into solving the problems of eco-friendliness and recycling of thermoset resin applications.