Preparation of Bio-based Resins from Soybean oil and Orange Peel

The main objective of the research is to replace petroleum-based raw materials with agricultural, bio-based materials for preparation of epoxy cast resins. Epoxy cast resins are polymers containing epoxy or oxirane group that are generally prepared by reacting petroleum-based raw materials with toxic chemicals such as isocyanate. Utilization of alternate resources; i.e., bio-based, agricultural products significantly alleviates health, safety and environmental hazards. Hence, we utilized plant based starting material obtained from soybean oil and orange peel in presence of a Lewis acidic catalyst, tris(pentaflorophenyl)borane or BCF for preparation of epoxy cast resins. Study of various thermal and mechanical properties of the bio-based epoxy cast resins prepared in our lab showed promising results. Major application of these epoxy cast resins includes coatings, adhesives, electrical insulation, 3 D printing, wind turbines, automobile parts, etc.