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Published on: June 19, 2015
Synthesis of galactoglucomannan-based latex via emulsion polymerization
Qiwen Yong1, Jiayun Xu2, Luyao Wang3
1Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chemical Synthesis and Pollution Control Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China; Laboratory of Natural Materials Technology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20500, Finland.
Researchers developed a novel galactoglucomannan-based latex (GGM-L) with excellent transparency, hydrophobicity, and flexibility. This bio-based material shows potential as a sustainable alternative to polyolefin-based latexes in paper applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Galactoglucomannan (GGM) is an abundant polysaccharide with potential for material applications.
- Developing sustainable and high-performance latexes is crucial for replacing petroleum-based polymers.
- Existing latex materials often lack a combination of transparency, hydrophobicity, and flexibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a facile strategy for fabricating GGM-based latexes with desirable properties.
- To investigate the structure-property relationships of GGM-based latexes.
- To evaluate the potential of GGM-based latexes as replacements for polyolefin-based latexes.
Main Methods:
- Etherification of GGM followed by emulsion polymerization.
- Characterization of allylated GGM (A-GGM) and GGM-based latexes (GGM-L) using ATR-FTIR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, HP-SEC, HPLC, and zeta-sizer.
- Evaluation of film properties including surface roughness (AFM, SEM), water vapor permeability (WVP), and thermal stability (TGA).
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized transparent, hydrophobic, and flexible GGM-L.
- Optimal GGM-L film achieved 91.3% transmittance, 0.43% haze, 117° water contact angle, 31.2% elongation at break, and 30.9 MPa ultimate tensile stress.
- GGM-L exhibited high bio-based content (up to 99 wt%).
Conclusions:
- A facile strategy combining etherification and emulsion polymerization was established for GGM-based latex fabrication.
- The substitution degree significantly influences film properties like surface roughness, WVP, and thermal stability.
- The developed GGM-L offers a promising, sustainable alternative to polyolefin-based latexes for paper and paperboard applications.
