Non-Formaldehyde Biobased Phenolic Resins

New product based on non-traditional and renewable feedstock need to be developed for both economic and environmental concerns. Bio-oils from biomass such as scrap wood, storm debris and even corn stover can be used to create phenol substitutes useful in the epoxy and wood adhesive markets. This results in materials in which the end user (a builder for instance) may claim additional LEED credits. Simply replacing phenol with bio-oil in traditional phenol/formaldehyde resins does not entirely address the environmental concerns associated with some of these products, however, as formaldehyde is still a key component in Novolac or Resol based systems regardless of phenol source (petroleum or biobased). The possibility then remains of formaldehyde emission, which is undesirable for indoor air quality. Luna Innovations Incorporated proposes to demonstrate the use of the bio-oils in creating non-formaldehyde based resins and thermoplastics. These polymers can be useful then in creating formaldehyde free composite and adhesive materials which allow for increased “green materials” incorporation into the building and construction industry, among others. The polymers and resins created during this program have the potential to be 100% biobased. The prospect of biomass-produced phenolic materials has shown significant value to numerous markets including plastics, adhesive and pharmaceutical industries. The market segment of biopolymer based materials is projected to grow at 27% per year making it an attractive investment opportunity.