Functionalization via glycerol transesterification of polymerized soybean oil

• Published in: Journal of applied polymer science Vol. 112; no. 1; pp. 19 - 27
• Main Authors: Lubguban, Arnold A, Tu, Yuan-Chan, Lozada, Zuleica R, Hsieh, Fu-Hung, Suppes, Galen J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hoboken Wiley Subscription Services, Inc., A Wiley Company 05.04.2009; Wiley
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Cellular; crosslinking; elastomers; esterification; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; oligomers; Polymer industry, paints, wood; polyurethanes; Technology of polymers; oligomers; Glycerol; Mechanical properties; Thermoplastic rubber; Crosslinking; Vegetable oil; Compressive strength; Transesterification; Experimental study; Cellular plastic; Property processing relationship; Density; Polyaddition; polyurethanes; Polyurethane elastomer; Thermal properties; esterification; elastomers; Crosslinked polymer; Thermal conductivity; Polyol; Plastics; Soybean oil
• ISSN: 0021-8995; 1097-4628
• DOI: 10.1002/app.29382

An acylglycerol-based molecule was synthesized by the thermal polymerization (bodying) of soybean oil followed by transesterification with glycerol. Transesterification with glycerol at temperatures greater than 200°C provided the desired polyol prepolymers. The extent of bodying and quantity of glycerol added during the transesterification provided tunability of the polyol molecular weight and functionality. The hydroxyl numbers, acidity, and viscosity of the polyols were characterized. The polyols were evaluated in elastomers and rigid foams. Extractability analyses were performed on the polyurethane elastomer wafers to evaluate crosslinking. Rigid foaming results for the processed soy-based polyol showed excellent physicochemical properties suggesting comparability with a petroleum-based polyether polyol.