GREEN TECH COMPOSITE: New biomass-derived epoxy classes

New classes of reactive epoxy mixtures derived from biomass with high reactivity for many sectors of applications

CONTEXT

Epoxy resins are so-called thermosetting polymers that have many industrial applications thanks to their varied functions: matrices for composite materials (used in particular in the automotive, construction, electrical/electronics industries), adhesives, paints, overmoulding, electrical insulation...

Their synthesis results from the polymerization reaction between an epoxy monomer and a crosslinking agent (also called a hardener). In 2009, the monomer used at 75% was DGEBA, a bisphenol A derivative. Bisphenol A is a substance suspected of causing endocrine disruption and reproductive disorders. This substance has  already been banned for food packaging for infants as of 1 January 2013.

BENEFITS
The technology develops hyper-reactive bio-sourced epoxy formulations that are effective after crosslinking. The latter can be considered as substitutes for those produced from petrochemicals and which are threatened with restriction or prohibition because of their proven toxicity, particularly when they are derived from bisphenol A.

APPLICATIONS
Aerospace Industry - Automotive - Railways - Watercraft - Sports - Electrical Engineering - Design Furniture