A new bio-based epoxy resin coating offers impressive flame retardancy, mechanical strength, and antibacterial properties, marking a significant step forward in sustainable coating technologies.

Bio-based epoxy resin coatings combine flame retardancy, mechanical strength, and antibacterial properties, promising sustainable and high-performance applications. Source:: §Á§ß-§©§Ñ§Ò§à§Ý§à§ä§ß§Ú§Û - adobe.stock.com

A novel bio-based epoxy resin has been developed using a simple two-step method, combining vanillin and 4,4¡ä-diaminodiphenyl ether to produce Schiff base alkaline compounds, which are then converted into epoxy resin. This resin, after curing with 4,4¡ä-diaminodiphenylmethane, exhibits remarkable properties, including flame retardancy with a V-0 rating and a Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) of 35.2%, significantly reducing heat release and smoke generation compared to traditional epoxy resins.

Flame-retardant, mechanically robust, and antimicrobial properties of bio-based resins

In addition to its flame-retardant capabilities, the bio-based resin demonstrates outstanding mechanical properties, such as a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 188.9 ¡ãC and a high storage modulus. Its unique Schiff base alkaline structure also provides excellent antibacterial performance, showing strong activity against Escherichia coli, making it ideal for applications requiring hygienic coatings.

This innovative approach to epoxy resin synthesis offers a sustainable and functional solution for advanced coating materials, with potential applications in industries requiring flame-resistant, mechanically robust, and antimicrobial coatings.

Source: Progress in Organic Coatings, Volume 190, May 2024