Research to derive a consumer product that is based on petroleum alternatives has been growing in recent years. This study focuses on the incorporation of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) as a feedstock in the formulation of structural plastics and varnishes. Presented herein are our synthetic advances towards the polymerization of bromo-acrylated derivatives of fatty acid oils. The homopolymers of sunflower and rapeseed FAMEs, although small with regards to molecular weight (8,000 da. � 16,000 da.) displayed an increased Tg (151 �C) when compared to their styrene, methyl methacrylate, and vinyl acetate copolymerized counterparts. Currently the polymerization of various monomers is being investigated utilizing thiol-ene click chemistry, and photo-initiated reactions. Ultimately, the transformation of FAMEs by exploiting click chemistry may broaden the development of green consumer plastics.

Advances towards the polymerization of FAMEs: A more efficient and robust approach

245th National Meeting (2013)

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