Developing Trend of Biomass Plastics Based on Plant Oils

Abstract

This account deals with developing trend of biomass plastics based on plant oils. Network polymers were obtained from epoxidized soybean and linseed oils by ring-opening polymerization or curing with acid anhydrides. The oil polymer composites were synthesized using cellulose fibers as filler, and their physical and thermal properties were improved in comparison with those of the oil polymers. A bio-based coating for roofs was developed from epoxidized plant oil-modified acrylic polyol. Bio-based polyols for polyurethane production were prepared using castor oil as starting material. Branched poly(lactic acid) bearing a castor oil core was used for preparation of the polyurethane form. It also acted as plasticizer and nucleating agent for biopolyesters such as poly(lactic acid) and poly(3-hydroxyalkanoate)s.