Bio-based composite resins have been developed from plant oils (soy, canola, linseed, corn etc) via chemical functionalization by the ACRES (Affordable Composites from Renewable Resources) group at the University of Delaware. The bio-content (C14 ratio basis) typically ranges from 50-100%. The new bio-based resin properties are comparable to petroleum based resins and their pricing is highly competetive, which is generating considerable commercial interest. The plant oil fatty acid distributions provide unique opportunities to control the molecular architecture and crosslink density. These resins are suited to composite manufacturing with natural (ligno-cellulosic, avian) or synthetic fibers (glass, carbon, kevlar) using RTM, VARTM, BMC, SMC and related liquid molding processing techniques. They form excellent nanocomposites with nanoclays, carbon nanotubes and nanocellulose. The resins can also be converted to foams via their polyols for PU foams (50% C14) or by high pressure CO2 foaming of the liquid molding resin (85% C14). The commercial scale-up of these materials with industrial partners Cara Plastics and DynaChem Inc is discussed. The environmental impact of these new materials is significant and the nominated design for the Virgin Earth Challenge Global Warming Solutions Award is presented.

http://www.che.udel.edu/research_groups/wool/index.html

http://www.caraplastics.com