Title

Ethyl Rhamnolipids as a Renewable Source to Produce Biopolyurethanes

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Winter 2-2015

Abstract

Responding to increasing environmental concerns, lipids are attractive feedstock to produce bio-based polyurethanes. In this study, ethyl rhamnolipids were used to synthesize polyurethanes by reacting with 1,6-hexane diisocyanate (HDI). Rhamnolipids were produced by microbial fermentation, providing a novel source for biopolyurethanes. FTIR and gel content analyses confirmed that the hydroxyl groups on rhamnose residues were reacted with isocyanates. DSC analysis revealed an adjustable glass transition temperature (Tg) from 19 to 50°C. Ethyl rhamnolipids are liquid at 50°C, presumably because rhamnose is connected with fatty acid at a mid-chain position and the unique structure decreases the tendency to crystallize. The liquid polyols were found to have good mixing and reaction properties. The study may inspire future synthesis of novel lipid-based polyols.

Publication Title

European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology

Volume

117

Issue

2

First Page

156

Last Page

160

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