Abstract
The synthesis of polymers from renewable sources is deemed as a significant approach with regards to a sustainable polymer chemistry. Herein, furfural, glycerol and lactic acid platform chemicals, which are derived from renewable and sustainable sources, were converted into their methacrylate monomers with bio-based components furfuryl, solketal and lactic acid. The monomers were formed via simple transesterification reactions and isolated in high yields and purity. Subsequently, the methacrylic monomers were polymerized and co-polymerized by employing a free radical solution polymerization technique using 1,1-azobis cyclohexanecarbonitrile (ABCN) as an initiator. The resultant bio-based polymers were obtained in high yields and proved to have sizeable molecular weights. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements on these polymers revealed that they have good thermal properties with thermal stability ranges between 125 and 155 oC. The polymers were further reinforced using commercially available cellulose triacetate and polysulfone to give new polymer composites, which were fashioned into thin films and membranes. The films and membranes demonstrate good mechanical and physical properties and will find potential applications in coatings, water filtration membranes and the production of packaging plastics.
M.Sc. (Chemistry)