Date of Award
Fall 12-13-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Chemistry (MSChem)
Department
Chemistry
First Advisor
Dr. Ram Gupta
Second Advisor
Dr. Khamis Siam
Third Advisor
Dr. Tim Dawsey
Abstract
This research will focus on the development and characterization of bio-based thermosets using epoxidized castor oil (ECO) and a range of dicarboxylic acids, namely 2,2'-dithiodiglycolic acid (DTGA), 3,3'-dithiodipropionic acid (DTPA), and 4,4'-dithiodibutyric acid (DTBA). The objective will be to synthesize environmentally sustainable thermosetting materials with tunable thermal and mechanical properties. The crosslinking between the epoxy groups in ECO and the carboxyl groups in the dicarboxylic acids will be confirmed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), demonstrating the successful formation of ester linkages. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) will reveal that DTGA-based thermosets exhibit higher glass transition temperatures (Tg) due to shorter chain lengths and higher crosslink density, while DTPA and DTBA will result in more flexible networks with lower Tg values. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) will indicate good thermal stability across all thermosets, with degradation onset temperatures above 300°C, though the presence of sulfur bonds may slightly reduce thermal stability. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) will show that ECO-DTGA thermosets will have the highest storage modulus, indicating superior mechanical strength and stiffness, while the DTPA and DTBA thermosets will exhibit higher elasticity. The inclusion of dynamic disulfide bonds will introduce the potential for reprocessability, allowing the thermosets to be reshaped without significant loss of performance. This study will highlight the versatility of ECO and dicarboxylic acids in producing bio-based thermosets with customizable properties, offering promising applications in sectors such as automotive, coatings, and composites. The materials' reprocessability and use of renewable resources will provide an avenue for sustainable alternatives to traditional petroleum-based thermosets, aligning with the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions in modern industries.
Recommended Citation
Chaudhari, Enanshu, "SUSTAINABLE SERIES OF NEW EPOXIDIZED CASTOR OIL-BASED THERMOSETS WITH REPROCESSABLE PROPERTIES" (2024). Electronic Theses & Dissertations. 822.
https://digitalcommons.pittstate.edu/etd/822
