Developing new carbon based materials from terrestrial carbon sources instead of fossilized carbon will help reduce humanity’s dependence on petrochemicals. Lignin provides a viable source of terrestrial carbon which viably could replace petroleum derived aromatic chemicals. Kraft lignin is currently a byproduct of the paper pulping industry which makes it an excellent candidate for development into value added chemicals. This research is focused on turning kraft lignin into a methacrylate functionalized resin intended for use as a composite matrix that could replace petrochemical polymers. A novel process has been developed to functionalize Kraft lignin directly without need for depolymerization or the use of organic solvents. The methacrylated is then cured to form thermosets which are then evaluated for key thermal, viscoelastic and mechanical properties. These thermosets have potential for use as a matrix resin in glass or natural fiber composites.

Development of methacrylate functionalized resin derived from kraft lignin

254th National Meeting (2017)

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