Condensation polymers from natural oils

Innovative technologies and competitive industrial products are reducing the dependence on petrochemicals for the production of polymers. Increasing concerns about the deteriorating environment caused by conventional polymers have directed worldwide research toward renewable resources. Vegetable oils are one of the most readily available alternative renewable resources. The functional groups present in natural oils can be activated for condensation polymerization. Accordingly, various types of useful condensation polymers, such as polyurethanes, polyesters and polyethers, are being produced by this route. The incorporation of natural oils into the polymer chain allows tailoring the properties of polyurethane products, for their widespread applications. (c) 2008 Published by Elsevier Ltd.