LIGNIN-BASED EPOXY RESINSWITH IMPROVED MECHANICAL PROPERTIES

Epoxy resins are widely used in various high-performing (e.g., structural) and
commodity products. They are frequently found in electronics, metal coatings,
composites, plastics, and adhesives. Currently, the epoxy resin market is dominated
by materials containing bisphenol A and other chemicals harmful to the
environment. Lignin can be employed to overcome this issue without sacrificing any
mechanical and thermal properties, but since it is not reactive in its native form, a
functionalization step is required first.

Technology

Our technology involves the preparation of novel epoxy resins using lignin in
specific formulations. The epoxy resins proposed are composed of three
components: a lignin, a functionalizing agent, and an epoxide. While lignin has
been combined with an anhydride or epoxide before, literature on using a
combination of all three components is extremely limited.

Main advantages

Such novel epoxy resins can greatly support sustainable development and the
establishment of a circular economy in various industries, such as automotive,
construction, and electronics.