Development of novel methods for the conversion of palm oil into polyurethane elastomers

Abstract

Presently most commercially available polyurethanes, either thermoplastics or thermosets, are based on polyols obtained from crude oil. These polymers are synthesised by reacting basically three components which consist of polyisocyanate, polyhydroxy;-terminated polymer (i.e. polyester of polyether) and a chain extender which are usually low molecular weight diols or diamines. Because of the wide range of polyisocyanates, polyesters or polyethers and chain extenders commercially available, polyurethanes have the versatility of being either rigid, semi-rigid or elastomeric depending on the formulation. Currently majority of the monomers for polymer syntheses, including polyether and polyester polyols, are derived from petrochemical refining of crude oil and coals, both of which are rapidly diminishing natural resources. In view of this problem there is pressing needs to find alternative sources of chemicals for polymer syntheses. One such viable naturally occurring and renewable resource is the vegetable oils. Castor oil is known to be used to produce polyurethanes. Castor oil is currently being used to produce polyurethane adhesives and coatings where good adhesion property and high temperature stability are pre-requisites.