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To address the growing and urgent need for quick and accurate food spoilage detection systems as well as to reduce food resource wastage, recent research has focused on intelligent bio-labels using pH indicators. Accordingly, we developed a dual-channel intelligent label with colorimetric and fluorescent capabilities using black lycium anthocyanin (BLA) and 9,10-bis(2,2-dipyridylvinyl) anthracene (DSA4P) as colorimetric and fluorescent indicators within a composite film consisting of chitosan (Cs), whey protein (Wp), and sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). The addition of STPP as a cross-linking agent significantly improved the hydrophobicity, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of the Cs/Wp composite films under low pH conditions. After the incorporation of BLA and DSA4P, the resulting dual-channel intelligent label (Cs/Wp/STPP/BLA/DSA4P) exhibited superior hydrophobicity, as indicated by a water contact angle of 78.03°. Additionally, it displayed enhanced mechanical properties, with a tensile strength (TS) of 3.04 MPa and an elongation at break (EAB) of 81.07 %, while maintaining a low transmittance of 28.48 % at 600 nm. After 25 days of burial in soil, the label was significantly degraded, which showcases its eco-friendly nature. Moreover, the label could visually detect color changes indicating volatile ammonia concentrations (25–25,000 ppm). The color of the label in daylight gradually shifted from brick-red to light-red, brownish-yellow, and finally light-green as the ammonia concentration increased. Correspondingly, its fluorescence transitioned from no fluorescence to green fluorescence with increasing ammonia concentration, gradually intensifying under 365-nm UV light. Furthermore, the label effectively monitored the freshness of shrimp stored at temperatures of 4 °C, 25 °C, and − 18 °C. Thus, the label developed in this study exhibits significant potential for enhancing food safety monitoring. [Display omitted] • A colorimetric and fluorescent dual-channel label was developed. • DSA4P is a new pH-sensitive fluorescent molecule for solid film systems. • Black lycium anthocyanins exhibit robust color responsiveness. • The label containing sodium tripolyphosphate had excellent mechanical properties. • The dual-channel intelligent label was exhibited high sensitivity to biogenic amine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the benefit of meet the industrial demand of integrated circuits for low dielectric constant (k) and the environmental requirements of sustainable development, it is important to prepare biobased benzoxazine resin with low k and high heat resistance by solvent-free method. In this paper, the biobased monomer V-fa containing aldehyde group was synthesized by biobased raw materials furfurylamine and vanillin, and then reacted with amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to prepare benzoxazine monomer V-fa-pdms containing schiff base structure by a solvent-free method. Then, the monomer was cured to obtain biobased benzoxazine resin poly(V-fa-pdms) , and the heat resistance, mechanical and dielectric properties of poly(V-fa-pdms) were studied. The results indicate that the resin exhibits excellent thermal stability and toughness by combining benzoxazine and PDMS reasonably. The initial thermal decomposition temperature (T di , 5% thermogravimetric loss) is 387 °C, and the material also exhibits excellent dielectric properties. When the frequency increases from 1 Hz to 1 MHz, the k of the material decreases from 2.71 to 2.60, and the fluctuation range of dielectric loss is 0.0051–0.0049. With the increase of frequency, both k and dielectric loss show a downward trend. At the same time, the material shows good corrosion resistance in commonly used solvents. These excellent properties of poly(V-fa-pdms) are due to the existence of a high cross-linked network structure formed by multiple cross-linking sites in the polymer network and the combined effect of low k and high heat-resistant PDMS components. A biobased benzoxazine monomer V-fa-pdms was synthesized by a solvent-less method without any purification, and the cured resin exhibits low dielectric constant and high heat resistance. [Display omitted] • A biobased benzoxazine monomer V-fa-pdms was synthesized by a solvent-free method. • Results demonstrate poly(V-fa-pdms) have high heat resistance, it also exhibits low dielectric constant and dielectric loss. • The nature behind these attractive performances of poly(V-fa-pdms) was intensively investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored xanthan gum hydrogel coatings as an approach to more environmental friendly fouling control strategies. Xanthan gum served as a filler in a conventional rosin/acrylic coating matrix, leading to the formation of a 150 μm thick gel layer on the coating surface upon seawater exposure. While biocide-free xanthan hydrogel coatings did not have significant antifouling capabilities, a synergistic effect between hydrogel and cuprous oxide was observed. During field tests at the CoaST Maritime Test Center (CMTC), it was found that the cuprous oxide concentration could be reduced by at least 50 wt% for the hydrogel coating without compromising the antifouling performance. Two possible causes were identified. First, the hydrogel coating could maintain a higher release rate over a prolonged period and second, the hydrogel was able to accumulate Cu2+, increasing retention time on the surface, creating a hostile environment. A synergistic enhancement in gel strength, yield point, and flow point was observed when xanthan was combined with konjac mannan. While promising for static applications, the rheological assessments of the different gels highlighted challenges for the application in dynamic settings like moving ships. • Xanthan gum was used as filler in standard rosin/acrylic antifouling coating. • A 150 μm thick gel layer was formed in situ upon seawater immersion. • Gel layer served as toxic reservoir, increasing the efficiency of the biocide. • A 50 % reduction of biocide was achieved versus hydrogel-free coatings. • Xanthan gum's gel properties were enhanced through blending with konjac mannan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Eugenol, cystamine and glycerol have been used as bio-based monomers. • A thermal dual-curing procedure based on click reactions has been implemented to produce vitrimers. • Aza-Michael and epoxy-amine were the reactions used in the curing process. • The change in the formulation allows for obtaining viscous and gelled intermediate materials. • Reversible aza-Michael reaction, disulfide exchange and transesterification participate in the relaxation mechanism. In the present work, the preparation of sustainable thermosets has been approached simultaneously from three different points of view: a) the use of bio-based monomers chemically modified through green methodologies, b) the adoption of dual curing through click-type reactions to implement more efficient manufacturing processes, and c) inclusion of interchangeable groups in the network, to enable the reuse and recycling of the material at the end of its useful life and avoid waste generation. The first goal has been approached by synthesizing in a greener way an acrylate-epoxy derivative of eugenol (AEEU) and a glycerol triacrylate (GTA), both biobased resources. Then, the second approach was addressed by using biobased cystamine as a crosslinker to obtain materials through a dual-curing procedure based on a first "click" aza-Michael reaction and a second "click" epoxy-amine reaction. Intermediate and final materials could be prepared with different tailorable properties by controlling the molar ratio of the AEEU and GTA. By using DSC and rheology, we could evaluate the sequentiality and the gelation of the curing process. Finally, the covalent adaptable networks (CANs) prepared contained three different types of dynamic bonds (disulfide, esters, and β-aminoesters) and their thermomechanical properties were tested by DMA revealing T g s above room temperature from 47 to 70 °C. Bending tests at break were performed to evaluate the mechanical properties reaching values up to 90 MPa of stress at break and 7 % of deformation. Stress relaxation tests showed that all materials could relax the stress at relatively low temperatures (120 °C) in less than 21 min. The associative and dissociative behavior of these materials was investigated through rheology revealing a clear drop of the modulus at high temperatures and frequencies when cystamine was used as a crosslinker. Moreover, their reprocessability was tested obtaining homogeneous samples with no significant changes in their chemical and thermal properties highlighting the great potential and wide range of possibilities in many different fields of these CANs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] A versatile and user-friendly "expert system" for de novo polymer design, named Polymer Expert, has been developed and implemented. Polymer Expert can be used to rapidly generate novel candidate polymer repeat units to meet desired performance targets. It is anticipated to accelerate innovation through materials science in industries that use polymers and polymer matrix composites. It was implemented by (1) generating an initial repeat unit database, (2) expanding this initial database into a large analog repeat unit database, (3) performing calculations for all repeat units in the large analog database by using quantitative structure–property relationships (QSPR) of broad applicability, and (4) integrating the resulting searchable library of repeat units and their predicted properties (PEARL, acronym for Polymer Expert Analog Repeat-unit Library) as a new module in a materials modeling and simulation software suite. Its use is illustrated by identifying biobased alternatives for poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and bisphenol-A polycarbonate (BPAPC), alternatives for highly crystalline polypropylene homopolymer (PPHP) and 10% glass fiber containing polypropylene (PP10GF), and polymers that may provide unusually high dielectric constants. Many promising candidates were unobvious and unlikely to have been identified without using a polymer informatics approach. Future work will focus on improving the quality of candidate repeat units by refining the QSPR method, enhancing the diversity of candidate repeat units by expanding PEARL, providing additional interactive search options, and converting Polymer Expert into a versatile R&D platform that users can customize for their own needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cosmetics has recently focused on biobased skin-compatible materials. Materials from natural sources can be used to produce more sustainable skin contact products with enhanced bioactivity. Surface functionalization using natural-based nano/microparticles is thus a subject of study, aimed at better understanding the skin compatibility of many biopolymers also deriving from biowaste. This research investigated electrospray as a method for surface modification of cellulose tissues with chitin nanofibrils (CNs) using two different sources—namely, vegetable (i.e., from fungi), and animal (from crustaceans)—and different solvent systems to obtain a biobased and skin-compatible product. The surface of cellulose tissues was uniformly decorated with electrosprayed CNs. Biological analysis revealed that all treated samples were suitable for skin applications since human dermal keratinocytes (i.e., HaCaT cells) successfully adhered to the processed tissues and were viable after being in contact with released substances in culture media. These results indicate that the use of solvents did not affect the final cytocompatibility due to their effective evaporation during the electrospray process. Such treatments did not also affect the characteristics of cellulose; in addition, they showed promising anti-inflammatory and indirect antimicrobial activity toward dermal keratinocytes in vitro. Specifically, cellulosic substrates decorated with nanochitins from shrimp showed strong immunomodulatory activity by first upregulating then downregulating the pro-inflammatory cytokines, whereas nanochitins from mushrooms displayed an overall anti-inflammatory activity via a slight decrement of the pro-inflammatory cytokines and increment of the anti-inflammatory marker. Electrospray could represent a green method for surface modification of sustainable and biofunctional skincare products.

The purpose of this review article is to provide a complete overview of the fastdeveloping topic of biobased nanomaterials and the various uses that they have. An extensive study into the utilization of biological resources for nanotechnology has been motivated by the growing demand for materials that are both sustainable and favorable to the environment. In this review, the different uses of biobased nanomaterials across a variety of fields are investigated. When it comes to drug delivery systems, biosensors, nanocarriers, and catalysts, biobased nanomaterials are interesting choices because of their unique qualities. These properties include biocompatibility, programmable surface chemistry, and inherent functionality. Also, in the biomedical field, biobased nanomaterials offer promising prospects for revolutionizing medical diagnostics and therapies. Their biocompatibility, tunable surface chemistry, and inherent functionalities make them attractive candidates for applications such as targeted drug delivery, imaging contrast agents, and tissue engineering scaffolds. In addition, the study discusses the current difficulties and potential future developments in the industry, emphasizing the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration and ongoing innovation. The incorporation of nanomaterials derived from biological sources into conventional applications holds tremendous potential for the advancement of sustainable development and provides solutions to global concerns. For the purpose of providing researchers, scientists, and professionals with a complete grasp of the synthesis, characterization, and applications of biobased nanomaterials, the purpose of this review is to serve as a helpful resource., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

To reduce the global CO 2 footprint of plastics, bio- and CO 2 -based feedstock are considered the most important design features for plastics. Oxalic acid from CO 2 and isosorbide from biomass are interesting rigid building blocks for high T g polyesters. The biodegradability of a family of novel fully renewable (bio- and CO 2 -based) poly(isosorbide- co -diol) oxalate (PISOX-diol) copolyesters was studied. We systematically investigated the effects of the composition on biodegradation at ambient temperature in soil for PISOX (co)polyesters. Results show that the lag phase of PISOX (co)polyester biodegradation varies from 0 to 7 weeks. All (co)polyesters undergo over 80% mineralization within 180 days (faster than the cellulose reference) except one composition with the cyclic codiol 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM). Their relatively fast degradability is independent of the type of noncyclic codiol and results from facile nonenzymatic hydrolysis of oxalate ester bonds (especially oxalate isosorbide bonds), which mostly hydrolyzed completely within 180 days. On the other hand, partially replacing oxalate with terephthalate units enhances the polymer's resistance to hydrolysis and its biodegradability in soil. Our study demonstrates the potential for tuning PISOX copolyester structures to design biodegradable plastics with improved thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties.

This study was focused on evaluating the suitability of a wide range of lignins, a natural polymer isolated from different plant sources and chemical extractions, in replacing 20 wt.% of petroleum-based polyol in the formulation of PU flexible foams. The main goal was to investigate the effect of unmodified lignin incorporation on the foam’s structural, mechanical, and thermal properties. The hydroxyl contents of the commercial lignins were measured using phosphorus nuclear magnetic resonance (31P NMR) spectroscopy, molar mass distributions with gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and thermal properties with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques. The results showed that incorporating 20 wt.% lignin increased tensile, compression, tear propagation strengths, thermal stability, and the support factor of the developed PU flexible foams. Additionally, statistical analysis of the results showed that foam properties such as density and compression force deflection were positively correlated with lignin’s total hydroxyl content. Studying correlations between lignin properties and the performance of the developed lignin-based PU foams showed that lignins with low hydroxyl content, high flexibility (low Tg), and high solubility in the co-polyol are better candidates for partially substituting petroleum-based polyols in the formulation of flexible PU foams intended for the automotive applications.

BACKGROUND Excessive use of chemical fungicides over the years for plant pathogen control has caused unwanted damage to non‐target organisms and resistance buildup in the target organisms. These harmful effects have prompted the industry to look for more sustainable and eco‐friendly solutions. Rhamnolipid is a naturally occurring surfactant that is biodegradable, relatively innocuous to non‐target species and can effectively lyse zoospores, the life form responsible for the spread of Phytophthora. In this study, rhamnolipid based coatings were developed and evaluated for protection of soybeans from P. sojae zoospores. RESULTS: Pure (acidic) rhamnolipid, when coated on the soybeans, affects the germination negatively. However, sodium and calcium complexed rhamnolipids do not interfere with germination. Seeds coated with 15–20 mg of developed formulation were planted in soil pots and then subjected to P. sojae infection by simulating flooding conditions and zoospore inoculation. Statistical analysis showed that sodium rhamnolipid based coating significantly improved the germination in presence of P. sojae from 42% to 73% (P = 0.017) while the germination of stress‐free control was 85% (statistically similar to coated seeds, P = 1). CONCLUSION: Neutralized rhamnolipid can protect soybeans from P. sojae without any negative effect on germination. This work illustrates the strategy to use rhamnolipid as effective fungicide. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of pyrolysis-based wood conservation is a good alternative for the use of fossil-based creosotes. In this life cycle assessment (LCA) the environmental impact of a biorefinery approach of pyrolysis oil from forestry residues or maize digestate and its application as wood modification treatment is determined. The damage to ecosystems, damage to human health and the increased resource scarcity is studied using an attributional LCA and a sensitivity and uncertainty analysis. Based on data from an existing pyrolysis plant, it is shown that pyrolysis oil from maize digestate has a significantly higher environmental impact than pyrolysis oil from forestry residues. This is due to a lower energetic yield and a higher ash content in the feedstock. The biorefinery approach of using pyrolytic sugars as wood modification treatment shows significantly lower environmental impacts than the fossil-based creosotes, regardless of the selected end of life scenario, due to a lower toxicity and by a reduction of 82% of greenhouse gases. This shows that in addition to energy production, pyrolysis oil can be applied as biobased chemicals and materials, developing a sustainable platform based on pyrolysis oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For environmental reasons, the production of plastic from renewable sources is gaining importance worldwide. In the case of polyethylene made from sugarcane-based ethanol, Brazil, being the world leader in sugarcane production, plays a fundamental role. Nevertheless, the absence of national regulations for monitoring the manufacturing process or verifying the biogenic fraction of what is already on the market raises concerns in Brazil. The main reason for the lack of such regulations is that the only approach fully capable of distinguishing identical chemical compounds of biogenic or fossil origin is the measurement of radiocarbon concentrations using an expensive and time-consuming method. Nevertheless, the measurement of stable carbon isotopes ratios has proven to be an acceptable approach to distinguish between C4 plant-derived plastics and petroleum-derived plastics. The present study compares the potential of the conventional mass spectrometry and radiocarbon accelerator mass spectrometry techniques as tools to determine the biogenic fraction of green polyethylene in Brazil. For plastics derived from either corn or sugarcane sources, δ13C values less negative than −20‰ indicate biofractions of 51% or higher. Other values would indicate the need to follow up to the radiocarbon accelerator mass spectrometry measurement, since it would not be possible to distinguish between lower biofractions and the presence of wheat or soy. The conventional mass spectrometry method can be employed for the preliminary screening of bio-based materials in manufacturing industries, representing a relatively cheap and accessible way of inspecting these products in developing countries. • Plastic marketed as bio-based may have petroleum as a significant source. • Biofractions of plastics derived from C4 plants can be resolved via IRMS analyses. • Sugarcane based plastics were measured by both IRMS and 14C-AMS techniques. • IRMS represents a cheaper alternative to 14C-AMS analyses in biofraction studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silanized graphene oxide (SiGO) was synthesized and characterized using KH570 as a modifier on graphene oxide (GO). Subsequently, high performance silanized graphene oxide/cardanol based benzoxazine (C-fa)-bismaleimide (BMI) resin composites (SiGO/C-fa/BMI) were prepared by blending and step thermal curing. The reaction and dispersion of SiGO in C-fa/BMI matrix were studied by FTIR and XRD. The effects of SiGO on the thermal and mechanical properties of the SiGO/C-fa/BMI composites were investigated. The results shown that SiGO has good dispersity in CFa-BMI matrix. The thermal decomposition temperature and char yield of SiGO/C-fa/BMI composites was improved markedly. Comparing with that of neat C-fa/BMI resin, the young's modulus and tensile strength of SiGO0.5/C-fa/BMI composite increased by 110.8% and 142.0%. The water absorption of SiGO/C-fa/BMI composites also decreased significantly. The great improvement in thermal and mechanical properties of SiGO/C-fa/BMI composites make them as a potential alternative high performance resin composite candidate in aerospace and electronic area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Whey and beet molasses as low-cost media for the production of green products. • Sequential dark-fermentation and photo fermentation process for P3HB production. • H2 evolution versus P3HB production in the circular bio-economy utilizing byproducts. • Lactobacillus sp. and Rhodopseudomonas sp. S16-VOGS3 for the mitigation ofenvironmental impact. • Semi-continuous growth regimen to produce high P3HB-rich Rhodopseudomonas biomas. Consecutive dark-fermentation and photo-fermentation stages were investigated for a profitable circular bio-economy. H 2 photo-production versus poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (P3HB) accumulation is a modern biotechnological approach to use agro-food industrial byproducts as no-cost rich-nutrient medium in eco-sustainable biological processes. Whey and molasses are very important byproducts rich in nutrients that lactic acid bacteria can convert, by dark-fermentation, in dark fermented effluents of whey (DFE W) and molasses (DFE M). These effluents are proper media for culturing purple non-sulfur bacteria, which are profitable producers of P3HB and H 2. The results of the present study show that Lactobacillus sp. and Rhodopseudomonas sp. S16-VOGS3 are two representative genera for mitigation of environmental impact. The highest productivity of P3HB (4.445 mg/(L·h)) was achieved culturing Rhodopseudomonas sp. S16-VOGS3, when feeding the bacterium with 20% of DFE M ; the highest H 2 production rate of 4.46 mL/(L·h) was achieved when feeding the bacterium with 30% of DFE M. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silylation of epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO) was carried out by epoxy ring opening reaction of methoxy and ethoxy silane compounds.¹ H NMR and FTIR spectra confirmed that two novel bio-based polyols, PSiTh and PSiAm, were obtained through the ring opening of epoxy by the mercapto and amino moieties of MPTMS and APTES, respectively. Polyurethanes of these polyols were prepared using 4,4´ - methylene-bis(phenyl isocyanate) (MDI) to incorporate silanol groups into polymer network and were labeled as PUSiTh and PUSiAm, respectively. To see the impact of silanol and phosphorous groups on flame retardant properties, the chain extended polyurethanes, PUSiThCE and PUSiAmCE were also prepared with bisphenol-A bis (hydroxy phenyl phosphonate) (BABHPP). Polyurethanes bearing thio-ether bonds besides alkoxy silane groups were characterized using FTIR spectroscopy. Prepared foams exhibited significant thermal stability and flame retardant properties with a limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 22-24%. Chain extended polyurethanes had 11-13 % higher LOI value than the corresponding non-chain extended polyurethanes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sulfur and nitrogen containing biobased polyol has been synthesized from undecylenic acid. • A polyol containing phosphate group has been prepared form cardanol. • Biobased polyol and phosphorous containing cardanol based polyol combinedly used for the preparation of polyurethanes. • An improved mechanical and anti-corrosion properties have been observed for the prepared polyurethanes. Renewable resource based polyol derived from undecylenic acid, a by-product of castor oil, was successfully synthesized by three consecutive reactions: methylation, thiol-ene addition, and amidation. The biobased polyol is a sulfur- and nitrogen-containing polyol. The structure was confirmed by FTIR, NMR, and mass spectroscopic techniques. The undecylenic acid based polyol was used as a polyol along with phosphated cardanol-based polyol in the preparation of polyurethane coatings. The obtained polyurethanes were assessed for their properties by various techniques such as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical and thermal analysis (DMTA), Universal testing machine (UTM) and electrochemical study. Interestingly, the biobased polyol improved mechanical property such as toughness of the material when it was incorporated in different weight percentages to the phosphated cardanol-based polyol. Moreover, the synergistic effect of the phosphorous and biobased polyol with the elements - sulfur and nitrogen, enhanced the anti-corrosion and antimicrobial natures of the polyurethane coating. The corrosion rate was drastically decreased from 3.0 × 10–4 to 1.8 × 10–7 mm per year for the prepared polyurethane coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hot-melt adhesives based on soy protein isolate and polycarpolactone where developed. • Castor oil was used as a plasticizer and pine rosin as tackifier. • Polycaprolactone could be replaced by soy protein isolate up to 50% w/w. • The addition of CO had a detrimental effect on the target properties. • Pine rosin remarkably improved the adhesive strength. The combination of synthetic biodegradable thermoplastic with natural vegetable proteins is an alternative poorly explored that might have advantages mostly in reducing the final environmental impact and cost of the adhesive. This article deals with the development and characterization of potentially biodegradable hot-melt adhesives (HMA) based on soy protein isolate and polycaprolactone (PCL), with castor oil (CO) as a plasticizer/ compatibilizing agent and pine rosin (PR) as a tackifier. Results revealed the potential of replacing the non-renewable bioplastic PCL by biogenic SPI up to 50% w/w, without impairing significantly the adhesive strength. The addition of CO had a detrimental effect on the target properties, whereas the incorporation of pine rosin remarkably improved the adhesive strength. Based on the overall results, PCL-SPI based HMAs have potential as adhesives for lignocellulosic substrates, with the additional benefit of having a high biobased content and being potentially biodegradable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Trieugenol phosphate monomer was synthesized (TEP). • Alder-ene thermosets were synthesize by reaction with TEP and bismaleimides. • Flexible Alder-ene thermosets were synthesized for the first time. • Rigid and flexible materials exhibit excellent thermal properties. • Thermal degradation was elucidated. Performing thermostable materials such as phenolic or epoxy networks are classically obtained from petrobased and harmful monomers. In this study, alternative solutions based on renewable eugenol trifunctional monomer (TEP) are proposed. Thus, innovative biobased Alder-ene thermosets are prepared by reacting TEP with two different bismaleimides: N , N ′-1,3-phenylene bismaleimide (PhBMI) and polydimethylsiloxane bismaleimide (SiBMI) leading to different crosslinked aromatic networks. These materials exhibit various mechanical properties with very different T g values of −113 °C and 247 °C for SiBMI and PhBMI materials respectively. However, both thermosets exhibit excellent thermal properties with elevated degradation temperature and high char yield. The degradation behavior was studied using thermogravimetric analysis – Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (TGA-FTIR): only silicon compounds were observed for SiBMI, whereas phosphorus and carbonaceous products had specific signatures in degradation gases for PhBMI. Kinetic analysis of degradation confirmed those different behaviors. Our contribution with two original Alder-ene thermosets is an innovative way to develop sustainable versatile high-performant materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper focuses on the study of thermomechanical properties of polyester acrylate (PEA) resins based on poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) and isosorbide with incorporation of 1/ diacid chains ranging from succinic acid (C4) to azelaic acid (C9) and 2/ diols with various structures such as butanediol and poly(ethyleneglycol) (PEG) with the aim to affect the stiffness of photopolymerized coatings. Therefore, statistic polyester acrylates of Mn 600 g/mol with low polydispersity and Tg were successfully synthetized and characterized by SEC, DSC and DMA. The relative acid value is between 60 and 80 mgKOH/g and the biorenewable carbon content can reach 71 to 90%. Incorporation of the different diols in the backbone was confirmed by NMR. The mixtures of mono and difunctionnal oligomers were crosslinked under LED irradiation and benefits from flexible chain extenders was enlighetened first from improved rate of polymerization and with higher conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biobased blend films produced from poly(lactic acid) (PLA), thermoplastic cassava starch (TPCS), and reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets (GRH) were evaluated in compost and inoculated vermiculite under composting conditions for 120 days. A reduction of the molecular number of the PLA fraction in the blends indicated early hydrolytic degradation. A priming effect was observed in compost for the physical blend of PLA with TPCS. A high biodegradation rate was observed for the TPCS fraction in each tested sample. In inoculated vermiculite, the addition of GRH resulted in a decreased hydrolytic degradation rate for PLA-GRH, attributed to the natural barrier offered by GRH to diffusion of water into the PLA matrix. In compost, incorporation of GRH at 0.1% wt. also resulted in a decreased abiotic degradation rate for PLA. Films containing GRH were associated with a longer lag-phase. Image 1 • Graphene nanoplatelets (GRH) did not inhibit compost or inoculated vermiculite. • Abiotic degradation rate decreased, and mineralization increased in PLA-GRH-0.1%. • Physical blend of PLA-Thermoplastic cassava starch presented priming effect in compost. • The priming effect was avoided when testing in inoculated vermiculite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract The association of nanoparticles with complementary properties to produce hybrids is an underestimated way to develop multifunctional original architectures. This strategy is used to prepare simple, low‐cost, and environmentally friendly method to fabricate ultra-low density alveolar foam reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs). This paper investigates the ability of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) to produce highly stable oil-in-water Pickering emulsions and to efficiently disperse carbon nanotubes in water to form three-dimensional macroporous conductive foam. It is shown that both single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) are strongly linked to CNCs by non-covalent interactions, preserving the intrinsic properties of both nanoparticles. Homogeneous surfactant-free emulsions with a droplet diameter of 6 µm are produced. Once concentrated, they can form stable high internal phase emulsions. Incorporating CNTs into these CNC-based emulsions was shown to improve their rheological properties. Freeze-drying the concentrated emulsions produces ultra-low density solid foams (14 mg·cm−3) with several levels of porosity controlled by the emulsification step. Loading CNCs with only 2–4 wt% of CNTs, decreases the electrical resistivity of the foam to 104 Ω cm in high relative humidity. The mechanical and electrical properties are studied and discussed in light of the resulting specific foam structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work focuses on the ability of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), isobornyl methacrylate (IBOMA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) as reactive diluents to replace styrene in unsaturated polyester resin based on itaconic acid, sebacic acid, 1,4-Butanediol, 1,6-Hexanediol and glycerol. The structural analysis confirmed the presence of itaconate linkages in the UPs. The synthesized resins were characterized by infrared spectroscopy and their physiochemical properties such as appearance, viscosity, acid value, %volatile content, curing characteristics like gel time, peak exotherm temperature and total cure time. Among all the resins formed; the resin based on 1,6-Hexanediol showed optimum molecular weight and viscosity needed for final application. The cured resins were investigated for their thermal stability by thermo-gravimetric analysis which revealed that all the diluted resins had good thermal stability. From the results it could be concluded that styrene-free bio-based unsaturated polyester resin can be synthesized having properties equivalent to the commercial styrene based resin.GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Over the past several decades, producing materials from fossil-based sources has become a serious problem because such action continues to contribute to global warming and contamination of the ecosystem. Thus, it is highly desirable to address this issue through producing functional materials via green chemistry such as the use of renewable compounds. In this paper, the preparation of hydrophobic coatings based on isosorbide, a derivative of polysaccharides, is reported. The inherently hydrophilic thermoset derived from isosorbide was made hydrophobic through the use of the hydrophobic curing agent F8815. The influence of the F8815 concentration on the decomposition temperature, glass transition temperature and storage modulus of the biobased samples was explored using TGA, DSC and DMA, respectively. The results showed that, despite of its poor mechanical and thermal properties, incorporation of F8815 served to improve the thermal and mechanical properties of the isosorbide-based polymers. Deconvolution analysis of FTIR spectra and SEM images provided insightful information on the participation of F8815 in the polymer network. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Hydrophobic coating were prepared in an aqueous medium using a bio-based epoxy. • The hydrophilic epoxy was turned into hydrophobic with the addition of a hydrophobizer as the curing agent. • The concentration of the hydrophobizer improved the thermal and mechanical properties of the coatings. • The improved mechanical and thermal properties were explained from crosslink density, polymer entanglement and segregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Novel renewable bisepoxide 2, 2′-diglycidyl ether-3, 3′-dimethoxy-5, 5′-diallydiphenylmethane (BEF-EP) and its hardener 3-methoxy-4-hydroxy-phenylbenzimidazole (VBZMI) were prepared from 1-allyl-3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzene (eugenol) and 2-methoxy-4-formylphenol (vanillin), respectively. The chemical structures of two monomers were confirmed by their 1H NMR spectra. Estrogenic activity test revealed that biobased bisphenol monomer 2,2′-dihydroxy-3,3′-dimethoxy-5,5′-diallydiphenylmethane (BEF) as the precursor of BEF-EP showed an extremely lower estrogenic activity than commercial bisphenols (BPA and BPF). This biobased, safe and green epoxy (BEF-EP) and commercial epoxy diglycidyl ether of bisphenol F (BPF-EP) were then cured with conventional and renewable hardener (benzimidazole BZMI and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxy-phenylbenzimidazole VBZMI), respectively, for comparison. The results showed the biobased epoxy thermoset (BEF-EP/BZMI) possessed excellent thermal stability (T d5% = 372 °C), almost reaching the properties of commercial epoxy thermoset (BPF-EP/BZMI, T d5% = 385 °C). Furthermore, BEF-EP/BZMI showed good hydrophobic properties, which exhibited a higher contact angle (79.53°) than BPF-EP/BZMI (75.16°). In addition, for the comparison between VBZMI and BZMI, the epoxy resins using VBZMI as the curing agent displayed higher performance than the epoxy resins using BZMI as the curing agent. Especially, BEF-EP/VBZMI showed a higher thermal stability (T d5% = 395 °C), a higher glass transition temperature (T g = 97 °C) and a higher contact angle (94.07) than BEF-EP/BZMI. The results could be attributed to the existence of hydroxyl groups in the side chain of VBZIMI, which enhanced the crosslinking density and then improved the rigid of epoxy material. Herein, we believe the novel biobased epoxy resin (BEF-EP) and hardener (VBZMI) has wide application as the alternative of conventional petroleum-based epoxy resin and hardener. Highlights • A novel renewable bisepoxide BEF-EP and its hardener VBZMI were prepared from eugenol and vanillin, respectively. • The precursor BEF showed extremely lower estrogenic activity than commercial bisphenols. • The biobased epoxy resin cured by VBZMI showed better performance than epoxy resin cured by traditional curing agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is one of the most promising bio-based polyester with great potential to replace for the petroleum-based polymers, which can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, the inherent brittleness of PLA seriously restricts its broad applications. Herein, PLA/poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)/ethylene methyl acrylate-glycidyl methacrylate (EMA-GMA) ternary blends with different phase structures were prepared through reactive blending. The reactions between the epoxy groups of EMA-GMA and the carboxyl and hydroxyl end groups of PLA and PCL and were evidenced from the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis and rheological results. The atomic force microscopy (AFM) images clearly revealed the formation of stack structure of the PCL and EMA-GMA minor phases in PLA/PCL/EMA-GMA (80/15/5) blend, and core-shell particle structures in PLA/PCL/EMA-GMA (80/10/10) and (80/5/15) blends. In terms of elongation at break and impact toughness, PLA/PCL/EMA-GMA (80/5/15) blend presents the best properties among all the compositions. Moreover, it also behaved excellent stiffness-toughness balance. The toughening mechanism can be ascribed to the formation of core-shell structure and the existence of interfacial adhesion in the ternary blends. This work can provide guide for the preparation and design of PLA-based partially renewable supertough materials that can compete with conventional petro-derived plastics. • PLA/PCL/EMA-GMA ternary blends with different phase structures were fabricated. • Reactions of EMA-GMA with PLA and PCL were evidenced. • AFM images clearly revealed stack or core-shell structures of minor phases in PLA. • PLA/PCL/EMA-GMA (80/5/15) shows the best toughness and stiffness-toughness balance. • Core-shell structure of minor phases is mainly responsible for toughening of PLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quest for environmentally friendly and sustainable materials in the production of fibre reinforced composite materials has led to the use of biobased materials, which are easily accessible and renewable. Biomass-derived chemicals, their derivatives, and their applications have become increasingly prevalent in various industries and processes, greatly contributing to the goal of ecological sustainability. The biobased Polyfurfuryl Alcohol (PFA) resin is one of such polymeric materials that is gaining attention for composite applications due to its endearing Fire Smoke and Toxicity properties. Derived from agricultural by products such as sugar cane bagasse, it has been known for applications within the foundry, coating, and wood industries. However, there has been a growing interest in its use for fibre reinforced composite applications. For this reason, this work intends to provide a comprehensive review of the PFA resin in relationship to fibre reinforced composites applications. The work provides an in-depth discussion on the synthesis, curing process, manufacturing, and properties of the PFA resin as well as its composites. • For biobased PFA and fibre reinforced PFA composites: • Established the state of the art in synthesis, cure kinetics and manufacturing. • Explained the limits of mechanical, thermal and moisture absorption properties. • Provided guidance for applications and research direction for improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Eugenol has been used as the bio-based monomer. • A new thermal dual-curing procedure has been implemented. • Thio-Michael and thiol-epoxy were the two click reactions used in the curing process. • The change in the formulation allows for obtaining viscous and gelled intermediate materials. This paper aims to increase sustainability in thermosetting polymeric fields using bio-based monomers and environmentally friendly processing technologies based on dual-curing. Eugenol has been transformed into acrylate epoxy eugenol (AEEU) that can participate in thio-Michael additions and thiol-epoxy reactions. These reactions constitute the first and second steps of the sequential dual-curing process. A basic catalyst has been added to favor the kinetics of the curing process. We have selected three thiols with functionalities 3, 4, and 6, the first is derived from eugenol, and the others are derived from pentaerythritol, all can be obtained from renewable resources. To tailor and improve the intermediate material characteristics in the dual-curing process, we have added the triacrylate of glycerol. By changing its proportion, a liquid or a rubbery solid can be obtained as an intermediate, which allows a significant number of application technologies. Rheology, DSC, and FTIR were used to follow the evolution of both curing steps and to confirm the sequential character of the dual-curing. The thermal characteristics of intermediate and final materials have been evaluated by TGA and DMTA. Tensile tests at break were performed to evaluate the mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the use of renewable biobased carbon feedstock is highly taken into consideration because it offers the intrinsic value of a reduced carbon footprint with an improved life cycle analysis (LCA), in agreement with sustainable development. [...]

This review covers the latest developments and challenges in the field of broad-spectrum sunscreens and how sunscreens based on lignin address their requirements in terms of sunlight protection, antioxidants, and preservatives.

Flavin mononucleotide (FMN) derived from Vitamin B2, a bio-based fluorescent water-soluble molecule with visible yellow-green fluorescence, has been used in the scope of producing photoluminescent and glow-in-the-dark patterned polyester (PET) nonwoven panels. Since the FMN molecule cannot diffuse inside the PET fiber, screen printing, coating, and padding methods were used in an attempt to immobilize FMN molecules at the PET fiber surface of a nonwoven, using various biopolymers such as gelatin and sodium alginate as well as a water-based commercial polyacrylate. In parallel, air atmospheric plasma activation of PET nonwoven was carried for improved spreading and adhesion of FMN bearing biopolymer/polymer mixture. Effectively, the plasma treatment yielded a more hydrophilic PET nonwoven, reduction in wettability, and surface roughness of the plasma treated fiber with reduced water contact angle and increased capillary uptake were observed. The standard techniques of morphological properties were explored by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Films combining each biopolymer and FMN were formed on PS (polystyrene) Petri-dishes. However, only the gelatin and polyacrylate allowed the yellow-green fluorescence of FMN molecule to be maintained on the film and PET fabric (seen under ultraviolet (UV) light). No yellow-green fluorescence of FMN was observed with sodium alginate. Thus, when the plasma-activated PET was coated with the gelatin mixture or polyacrylate bearing FMN, the intense photoluminescent yellow-green glowing polyester nonwoven panel was obtained in the presence of UV light (370 nm). Screen printing of FMN using a gelatin mixture was possible. The biopolymer exhibited appropriate viscosity and rheological behavior, thus creating a glow-in-the-dark pattern on the polyester nonwoven, with the possibility of one expression in daylight and another in darkness (in presence of UV light). A bio-based natural product such as FMN is potentially an interesting photoluminescent molecule with which textile surface pattern designers may create light-emitting textiles and interesting aesthetic expressions.

The use of renewable resources for plastic production is an imperious need for the reduction of the carbon footprint and the transition towards a circular economy. With that goal in mind, fully biobased epoxy resins have been designed and prepared by combining epoxidized linseed oil, lignin, and a biobased diamine derived from fatty acid dimers. The aromatic structures in lignin provide hardness and strength to an otherwise flexible and breakable epoxy resin. The curing of the system was investigated by infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The influence of the different components on the thermo-mechanical properties of the epoxy resins was analyzed by DSC, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and tensile tests. As the content of lignin in the resin increases, so does the glass transition, the Young’s modulus, and the onset of thermal degradation. This correlation is non-linear, and the higher the percentage of lignin, the more pronounced the effect. All the components of the epoxy resin being commodity chemicals, the present system provides a realistic opportunity for the preparation of fully biorenewable resins at an industrial scale.