Functionalisable Epoxy-rich Electrospun Fibres Based on Renewable Terpene for Multi-Purpose Applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• The circular economy necessitates bio-based polymers with enhanced properties.
• Developing functionalizable materials is key for advanced applications.
• Electrospinning offers a versatile platform for creating functional polymer fibers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel bio-based polycarvone acrylate di-epoxide (PCADE) as an additive for electrospun fibers.
• To create poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) fibers with surface-accessible epoxy groups.
• To demonstrate the utility of these functionalized fibers in practical applications.

Main Methods:

• One-step electrospinning of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) with varying amounts of bio-based polycarvone acrylate di-epoxide (PCADE).
• Comprehensive material characterization using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
• Application-based testing in epoxy-based carbon fiber reinforced composites and enzyme immobilization membranes.

Main Results:

• PCADE addition to PVDF fibers resulted in surface segregation of the bio-based additive.
• The electrospun fibers successfully presented functionalizable epoxy groups on their surface.
• Immiscibility between PCADE and PVDF was confirmed, facilitating surface functionalization.
• Demonstrated feasibility in creating advanced composites and enzyme immobilization membranes.

Conclusions:

• A straightforward one-step electrospinning method yields PVDF fibers with surface-functionalizable epoxy groups using a bio-based additive.
• This approach offers a sustainable route to advanced materials for composite and biocatalysis applications.
• The developed fibers are ready-to-use, highlighting their practical potential in the circular economy framework.