Preparation of Epoxidized Soybean Oil

Abstract

Epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) was prepared by in situ epoxidation, using acetic acid and hydrogenperoxide. Sulfuric acid was used as a catalyst. Experimental parameters included acetic acid content,hydrogen peroxide content, catalyst content, reaction temperature and reaction time. Epoxide contentwas investigated by using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Tensile specimens were preparedby mixing with anhydride curing agent (MTHPA) and catalyst, and cured under controlled condition. It isfound that ESO containing ≥ 25% was able to prepare a plastic sheet. ESO containing 25 - 35% ofepoxide content was selected to compare tensile properties. Epoxide content in ESO and curing agentcontent were strongly related each other. The best formulation was obtained from ESO containing 31%and MTHPA 70 phr cured for 1 hour and 30 min. Its modulus, stress at break and strain at break were3.44 MPA, 3.01 MPA, and 58% respectively.

Keywords : Epoxidation / Epoxidized Soybean Oil / Renewable Resource / Bioplastic