Synthesis of Epoxidatied Castor Oil and Its Effect on the Properties of Waterborne Polyurethane

In this study, a new method for synthesis poxidatied castor oil (ECO) is engaged. A series of waterborne polyurethane dispersions (WPUs) were synthesized using polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), toluene diisocyanate (TDI-80), and ECO. These WPUs can be crosslinked spontaneously upon drying, without extra additives or processing steps. Moreover, the particle size, and morphology of WPUs were examined with light scattering ultrafine particle analyzer, and transmission electron microscopy. The anti-water, thermal and mechanical properties were also studied. Results reveal that the particle size of WPUs mainly depends on the concentrations of ECO. The particle size decreases when the ECO is used. Furthermore, increased amount of ECO results in an improvement of the anti-water, thermal and mechanical properties of WPU films.