Chemo-Enzymatic Synthesis and Characterization of Renewable Thermoplastic and Thermoset Isocyanate-Free Poly(hydroxy)urethanes from Ferulic Acid Derivatives

Abstract

This study presents the syntheses and characterization of renewable nonisocyanate polyurethanes (NIPUs) from a new family of aromatic C5-cyclocarbonate precursors with different functionalities obtained from nontoxic ferulic acid derivatives by glycidylation and carbonation under high carbon dioxide pressure. Depending on the functionality, linear NIPU chains (thermoplastics) or cross-linked NIPU networks (thermosets) have been obtained. The thermoplastic NIPUs molar masses were determined using SEC and 1H NMR. The thermal and thermo-mechanical properties of the NIPUs were assessed by DSC, DMA (for thermosets), and TGA to determine the influence of the NIPU chemical structure on its properties. The range of Tg obtained (17–72 °C) was efficiently correlated with the degree of freedom and the molar mass of the NIPU repeat unit.