Epoxy resins from rosin acids: synthesis and characterization

Abstract

Abstract A series of multifunctional cycloaliphatic glycidyl ester and ether epoxy resins were synthesized by reaction of condensed rosin acid‐formaldehyde resins with epichlorohydrin. The chemical structure of the produced resins was determined by IR and 1 H‐NMR analysis. The molecular weight of the produced resins was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). A series of poly‐ (amide‐imide) hardeners were prepared from condensation of Diels–Alder adducts of rosin acid‐maleic anhydride and acrylic acid with triethylene tetramine and pentaethylene hexamine. These amines were also condensed with Diels–Alder adducts of rosin ketones. The curing exotherms of the produced epoxy resins with poly(amide‐imide) hardeners were investigated. The data of mechanical properties, solvent and chemical resistance indicate the superior adhesion of the cured epoxy resins. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.