Oral presentation

3.6 Betulin epoxide polymer for coatings 

Sergejs Gaidukovs

professor

Riga Technical University

Co-author(s):
Sergejs Gaidukovs, Riga Technical University
Rinalds Buss, Riga Technical University

The growing demand for sustainable alternatives to petrochemical-based epoxy resins has led to the development of bio-based systems. This study introduces a new synthesis method using betulin from birch bark to produce high-value polymeric resins. A novel betulin-derived epoxide (BOE) was synthesized and combined with epoxidized rapeseed oil (ERO), then thermally cured with seven anhydrides and three thermal initiators. Rheological analysis showed a gel time of 45 minutes, with maximum conversion 84–93% within 75 minutes. Coatings applied to plywood were tested for microhardness and friction, showing a transition from soft to rigid systems based on component content and selection. The study highlights the potential of bio-based epoxy resins as viable alternatives to fossil-based counterparts, offering tailored performance for specific applications.

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