The purpose of this project is to address health and sustainability concerns associated with conventional BPA-based epoxy resins (most commonly used DGEBA) by developing epoxy–phenolic thermoset systems based on glycidates, an alternative epoxy monomer with reduced toxicity.
The study aims to examine whether these safer monomer systems can achieve curing behavior and material performance comparable to conventional epoxy resins used in industrial applications.
By focusing on material design and experimental validation, this project seeks to provide a scientific basis for safer and more responsible use of thermoset polymers.
The outcomes contribute to sustainable industrial innovation and responsible production, in alignment with SDGs related to health, industry, and sustainable consumption.
概要
Epoxy resins are widely used in coatings, adhesives, and composite materials; however, conventional BPA-based epoxy systems present concerns related to toxicity and environmental impact.
In this project, epoxy–phenolic thermosets incorporating glycidates, an alternative safer epoxy monomer, with lower toxicity were designed and experimentally evaluated as safer material systems.
The research involved systematic investigation of curing behavior, thermal properties, and anticorrosion performance to assess the feasibility of these materials for industrial use.
The results demonstrated that the developed thermosets could maintain essential functional properties while offering improved safety characteristics.
This work provides a materials-science-based framework for advancing sustainable thermoset design in support of healthier working environments and responsible production practices.
Conceptual design of this research: BPA-based epoxy resins are replaced by safer glycidate-type monomers to form epoxy–phenolic thermosets with lower curing temperature, improved stability, and reduced health and environmental risks, contributing to SDGs 3, 9, 12, and 13.
Anti-corrosion performance of safer epoxy–phenolic thermoset coatings, showing surface stability under 1 M HCl (aq.) and 1 M NaOH (aq.) compared with severe corrosion of bare aluminum.