Bio-Phenolic Elastomer Composite

BRIEF TECHNOLOGY

The invention includes a process for producing bio-based phenolic resin from oil palm biomass and steps for fabrication of fibre reinforced bio-phenolic and bio-phenolic-epoxidized natural rubber composites.

INSPIRATION OF THE INVENTION

  • It is providing an alternative for waste management of the Malaysian largest agro industrial crop by utilizing its major solid biomass.
  • Optimising incorporation of biopolymer in the making of composites.
  • Improving the toughness of brittle phenolic polymer composite using natural rubber is another important agroindustrial crop in Malaysia.

PROBLEM STATEMENT & CURRENT ISSUES

  • Abundance of solid lignocellulose biomass from agroindustry.
  • Most commercial phenolic resin produced using 100% petrochemicals.
  • Both phenolic polymer matrix and reinforcing fiber materials are strong but brittle.
  • Most countries have strong strategies for bioeconomy.

INVENTIVENESS  & NOVELTY

  • Utilizing lignocellulosic functionality to substitute petro- chemical phenol in the making of phenolic resin.
  • Combining polar bio-phenolic resin with non-polar natural rubber.
  • Using elastomer prepreg layering for the fabrication of composite panels

USEFULNESS & APPLICATION

  • This technology can be used to fabricate automotive body parts such as a bumper, hood, door etc.
  • Application in the making of furniture and tabletops.
  • Flooring and other suitable building structures.

IMPACT OF THE PRODUCT

  • Offer alternative use of the biomass from the oil palm industry.
  • Utilisation of natural rubber in the making of the product instead of synthetic elastomers.
  • Increase wettability and compatibility between reinforcing fibres with the phenolic matrix.
  • Improves phenolic composite toughness.

MARKET POTENTIAL 

  • Biophenolic resin: Adhesive for plywood/wood industries.
  • Biophenolic composite: Automotive, construction materials and furniture.

TRL : 4

Project Leader : Prof. Dr. Sarani Zakaria

Co-Researcher : Prof. Madya Dr. Chia Chin Hua, Dr. Sharifah Nabihah Syed Jaafar, En. Umar Adli Amran, Puan Zuhaili Zakaria

Dept./Fac./Inst : Applied Physics

Expertise : Lignocellulose composite, pulp and paper, biorefinery, nanotechnology, cellulose derivatives and regenerated products, bioresin

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Carbamate Process

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