Description:
Overview of Technology
This technology discloses two different approaches to synthesizing cottonseed oil-base polymers.
Background on Technology
Current synthetic textile materials such as polyester are often sourced over natural cotton fibers due to their low price and consistency. However, these synthetic alternatives often bring about harmful environmental damage due to slow decomposition rates.
Polymer synthesis from renewable resources such as cotton oil is attractive as these materials are partially or completely biodegradable.
Since 2013, cottonseed surplus exceeded 390,000 metric tons, largely affecting price at various points along the supply chain.
This invention will provide better mechanical properties required in many applications. Additionally, biodegradation increases with the use of cottonseed oil providing an eco-friendly alternative to the petroleum-based plastics (ABS) or bio-based plastics (PLA).
Description of Technology
Polymer synthesis from renewable resources such as cotton oil is attractive, as these materials will be partially or completely biodegradable. This invention entails 2 different approaches to synthesize cotton seed oil base polymers.
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Triglyceride fatty acid in cottonseed oil was converted to cottonseed oil monoglyceride by reacting with an excess amount of glycerol at 220 degrees. Then, two maleic anhydride molecules react with a CSOMG molecule, where the product CSOMG maleate is mixed with styrene solution.
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Cottonseed oil was reacted with hydrogen peroxide to convert all the unsaturated fatty acid to epoxide. Then ECSO was reacted with a known mole ratio of maleic anhydride to form a crosslinked polymer. This crosslinking was formed by esterification reaction in between maleic anhydride and the epoxide position in the fatty acid chain.
Benefits
- Eco-friendly due to biodegradation capabilities
- Better mechanical properties
Applications
The properties of the polymers will determine the final end-use commercial possibility for the invention. The polymers can be used as the base for synthetic materials such as polyester. This would change the current apparel industry landscape.