Conversion of Vegetable Oils into Glycidyl Ethers: The Key Process Moving Towards Sustainability and Improved Performance in Epoxy Resins
Haider A.J. Almuslamawy *
Ibn Al-Haitham Department of Chemistry, College of Education for Pure Science, University of Baghdad, Iraq.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
It is through a review of conversion of vegetable oils into glycidyl ethers focusing on their roles in achieving sustainability and improved epoxy resin performance. It involves functionalization of triglycerides in the form of epoxidation followed by glycidylation and yields bio-based monomers having improved mechanical as well as thermal properties. The review covers the underlying chemistry, production drivers, industrial applications, and future issues, supported by quantitative data and comparative studies. In addition, it integrates recent data on catalyst choice, feedstock flexibility, and environmental performance factors of bio-based resins, indicating their suitability for replacing traditional petroleum-based components.
Keywords: Glycidyl ethers, feedstock flexibility, thermal properties, environmental catalysts