Fiber reinforced composites are typically prepared using thermosetting polymeric resins derived from petroleum resources and involving hazardous chemicals. We present a vinyl-ester system utilizing a 100% renewably based unsaturated polyester enabling the sequestration of carbon from the atmosphere into durable goods for decades. The biopolymer poly(lactide) (PLA) is synthesized using a strategy giving vinyl end groups. In place of potentially carcinogenic styrene, the new sustainable bioresin is dissolved in methyl methacrylate (MMA), infused into fibers and cured to form composite panels. Mechanical properties are excellent and comparable with less sustainable materials from 100% fossil resources.

Carbon sequestering vinyl ester bioresins

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.