Preparation of Epoxy-Novolac Resin Binder Using Phenolic Rich Fractions of Biomass Pyrolytic Oil as Partial Substitute of Phenol

Epoxy resins are among the basic components for coatings manufacture but because of their cost and environment effects, some environmental protection regulations have restricted the use of chemicals considered toxic. The potential of using phenolic rich fractions of bio-oil derived from the pyrolysis of a sustainable agricultural waste for epoxy resin synthesis was investigated. Epoxy resins with different concentration of water-insoluble heavy fraction were synthesized. The bio-oil, heavy fraction and prepared resins were later characterized using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR), Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). FTIR and GC-MS results confirmed the presence of phenols on both the bio-oil and heavy fraction with heavy fraction having a higher concentration. DSC analysis showed a corresponding increase on curing time of the resins with increased quantity of phenolic rich components. FTIR analysis of the resin indicated high-ortho structure. Utilization of bio-oil as a source of phenol for epoxy resins manufacture would significantly reduce the cost and negative environmental effects of the current resins.