6B2 capturing natural fibre reinforced algae-derived polyurethane composites

Abstract

In the past two decades, there has been a substantial increase in the use of natural fibres in bio-composites; these fibres have a Greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint of about 60,000 times less than virgin carbon fibres. The synthesis of polymers from renewable resources is gaining importance as a solution to the critical issues of depleting crude oil reserves and widespread pollution. To date, polymers have been manufactured utilising a vast array of biomass and bio-based platform chemicals. One such polymer is Polyurethaneane. Polyurethane (PU) is typically produced through the reaction of a polyol (polyol polyether or polyol polyester) derived from petroleum with isocyanate. With a few adjustments to the polyols and diisocyanates, the properties of PU can be significantly improved. Due to its adaptability, PU is utilised in many products, such as foam, spandex, coatings, and adhesives. Despite its usefulness, the primary raw material of Polyurethaneane (PU) is petroleum-based material which is nonrenewable and has low biodegradability, resulting in severe environmental problems. Cellulose, vegetable oil, lignin, proteins and starches are all biological components that can be used in the synthesis of Polyurethaneane (PU). These biomass materials are advantageous because they are abundant, inexpensive, high-yielding, and have a minimal environmental impact. The primary focus of this study is new developments in synthesising polyols from biomass and their use in PU materials. The primary goal of this research is to characterise a PU produced from algae biomass and utilise this to manufacture a prototype composite material. Whilst also studying the amount of carbon dioxide embodied in the system. The thesis aims to conclude that bio-based resin systems can produce good mechanical properties while reducing environmental impact.