Facile synthesis of bio-based tetra-functional epoxy resin and its potential application as high-performance composite resin matrix

In order to meet the increasing performance demands for resin matrix in aerospace industry and fulfill the sustainable development strategy, designment of bio-based epoxy resins with satisfactory comprehensive properties outperforming N,N,N',N'-tetraglycidyl-4,4'-diaminodipehnylmethane (TGDDM) for high-end application is of paramount important but also a formidable challenge. Herein, a simple and high-efficient method was proposed to synthesize a bio-based tetra-functional epoxy resin (MTEP) from a sustainable biomass feed-stock, magnolol. With 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl sulfone (DDS) as curing agent, the cured MTEP/DDS showed a record glass transition temperature of 326 degrees C and an ultrahigh char yield of 52.1%, which was 83 degrees C and 1.1 times higher than those of TGDDM/DDS, respectively. In addition, the cured MTEP/DDS also exhibited a high flexural modulus of 3991 MPa and storage modulus (at 25 degrees C) of 3705 MPa, which were all superior to those of TGDDM/DDS. More impressively, thanks to the unique structure of magnolol, the cured MTEP/DDS illustrated lower water absorption in comparison with TGDDM/DDS, and possessed outstanding intrinsic flame retardancy, attaining V-0 rating in UL-94 test. This work adds new members to the synthetic toolbox of high-performance bio-based polymers as composite resin matrix for potential aerospace applications.

Automated summary

A method for synthesizing high-performance bio-based epoxy resin using magnolol was proposed, exhibiting superior thermal and material properties compared to traditional resins. This research provides new possibilities for the development of composite materials in the aerospace industry.