This resin is composed of two reactive components (A + B) which, after mixing, react to give a rubber-like material. Component A is based on vegetable oils and contains ca. 85% bio-based carbon.
Bio-based component A of the resin is made by attaching a reactive group to each of the two ends of a chemical made from vegetable fatty acids. Component B of the resin is currently not yet not based on renewable raw materials. Component B also has reactive end groups, but of a different type. By mixing both components (at the point of application, e.g. where a casting floor is to be installed), a chemical reaction takes place between the end groups of component A and those of component B. As a result, a strong network of chemical bonds (‘curing’) is formed, creating a flexible resilient material. It is important that this curing does not happen too fast. After all, the mixture must have time to first flow out after pouring.
What’s next
Coupling the reactive end groups to the fatty acid derivative is not currently a commercial process. Once it is, other applications for the resin can be developed. Next, a ‘launching customer’ is needed to demonstrate the benefits of the resin, such as its lower toxicity compared to existing resins, and higher bio-based carbon content, in practice.