Production of polyols and polyurethane from biomass: a review

Depletion of fossil fuels and climate issues are calling for renewable sources of chemicals such as modern biomass, yet converting biomass into chemicals is challenging due to the inherent molecular complexity of biomass composition. Here, we review recent methods for the production of polyols from vegetable oil, lignin, and carbohydrates. We also review the production of polyurethane from biomass polyols. Conversion of vegetable oil into polyols is done by epoxidation, hydroformylation, and transesterification. Conversion of lignin into polyols is done by solvothermal liquefaction, hydroxymethylation, oxypropylation, and phenolation.

Automated summary

This article reviews the methods for producing polyols from vegetable oil, lignin, and carbohydrates, as well as the production of polyurethane from biomass polyols. Conversion of vegetable oil involves epoxidation, hydroformylation, and transesterification, while conversion of lignin involves solvothermal liquefaction, hydroxymethylation, oxypropylation, and phenolation.