The enzymatic synthesis of polyols and epoxidized derivatives from renewable resources is essential for the development of industrial biotechnology in order to meet green chemistry requirements and sustainability goals of consumers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF A TECHNOLOGY
We have developed the technology bio-based polyol production from rapeseed oil by chemo-enzymatic route, which follows Principles of Green Chemistry from rapeseed oil. The process consists of two phases and the produced intermediate of the process is epoxidized rapeseed oil (scheme). The efficient and sustainable epoxidation process of rapeseed oil is performed at a moderate temperature using lipase andin situ generated linoleic peracid. In the second phase, the ion exchange resin Amberlyst-15 with strongly acidic sulfonic group is applied as a reusable catalyst, what maintains the hydrolysis process sustainable. The technology is also validated with other types of oils.
During this process two products of the synthesis process are produced: epoxidized oil and polyol (biopolyol).
Epoxidized oil can be used as natural plasticizer instead of chemical plasticizers in industries cosmetics, toys manufacturing, PVC production, dying, painting and polishing products manufacturing etc. Such epoxidized derivatives are natural (“green”) and biodegradable, less anti allergenic and toxic in comparison with chemical analogues. It can change phthalates, which are toxic and dangerous for health and soon will be forbidden in EU to be used as plasticizers.
Biopolyols can be applied for the production of various polyurethane foam (soft, rigid, etc.). Thisbiopolyol have much better characteristics compared with chemical polyols: Natural („green“), can reduce polyurethane fire potential, is biodegradable, not toxic and is anti-allergenic.
PURPOSE
TECHNOLOGY READINESS LEVEL
TRL 6
PUBLICATIONS
M.Šulcienė, A. Karalius, I. Matijošytė.Chemo-enzymatic route for the production of biopolyol from rapeseed oil.Curr.Org. Chem. 2014, 18: 3037-3043
Vilnius University is the largest Lithuanian higher education and research institution. We are open for collaborative research, contract research or any cooperation activities with partners from business and public organizations. Multidisciplinary approach on R&D activities at Vilnius University provides unique opportunity to incorporate methodologies, perspectives, data and concepts from all scientific fields – biomedical, physical sciences, technologies, social sciences and humanities. We believe that the right mix of shared intentions with our partners and clients, outstanding teams of university researchers and open access to modern R&D infrastructure deliver remarkable solutions that can change organizations, markets and society in general.
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