Date Approved
1-16-2025
Embargo Period
3-17-2027
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (M.S.)
Department
Chemical Engineering
College
Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering
Advisor
Joseph Stanzione III, PhD
Committee Member 1
Emre Kinaci, PhD
Committee Member 2
James A. Newell, PhD
Disciplines
Engineering
Abstract
The vast array of complex organic molecules contained within Birch Bark Extract (BBE) provides the building blocks to make it a potential bio-based alternative towards replacing petroleum-based polymers for selected coatings applications. However, the isolation of these individual molecules is costly and complex, making it unrealistic to develop cost-effective bio-based polymers at commercial scales. Thus, this thesis focuses on developing thermosets from birch tree bark in cost-efficient ways using different extraction solvents (i.e., chloroform and ethanol), bio-based diacids (i.e., C9, C12, and C18 diacids) and homogenization methods (i.e., oil bath, single-screw, and twin-screw extruders). The thermal characteristics of the resulting polymers were evaluated via DSC and TGA as favorable thermal properties are essential to develop polyesters with optimal and tailored properties for coatings applications. The thermal attributes of the BBE thermosets were impacted by solvent choice and synthesis technique. The potential utilization of these thermosets as bio-based films for wood and aluminum protection was assessed via cross-hatch adhesion, impact force resistance, contact angle measurement, mandrel bending, weather resistance, and pendulum hardness tests. The BBE-based aluminum and wood films exhibited outstanding adhesion to the substrates as well as favorable coatings properties.
Recommended Citation
Abbouz, Nesrine, "INFLUENCE OF THE EXTRACTION SOLVENT AND SYNTHESIS METHODS ON THE PROPERTIES OF BIRCH BARK EXTRACT-BASED THERMOSETS FOR ALUMINUM AND WOOD COATINGS" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 3329.
https://rdw.rowan.edu/etd/3329
