From Fossil to Bio-Based AESO-TiO₂ Microcomposite for Engineering Applications.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Green Chemistry
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Growing environmental concerns necessitate replacing petroleum-based materials with renewable resources.
• Vegetable oils offer a sustainable source for developing eco-friendly polymers for diverse applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simplified, green synthesis pathway for a thermally curable matrix from epoxidized soybean oil.
• To characterize the pristine matrix and a composite incorporating TiO2 microparticles.

Main Methods:

• Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)
• Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)
• Thermogravimetry (TGA)
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
• Broadband dielectric spectrometry
• Contact angle measurements

Main Results:

• A solvent-free, thermally curable matrix was synthesized using epoxidized soybean oil, acrylic acid, a reactive diluent, and a catalyst.
• The composite with 2% TiO2 microparticle filler exhibited enhanced thermal stability (lower mass loss, higher degradation temperature), increased glass transition temperature (-10 °C vs. -20 °C), improved hydrophobicity (contact angle 96° vs. 88°), and superior dielectric properties compared to the pristine matrix.

Conclusions:

• The developed microcomposite demonstrates excellent properties making it suitable for protective coatings, capacitors, sensors, and electronic circuits.
• This research contributes to advancements in green chemistry and the development of sustainable materials.