Readily Degradable Thermoset Network Derived from Biomass Resource

Indiscriminate use of non-degradable petroleum-based thermosetting polymers has caused many environmental problems. In particular, plastic waste and microplastics are emerging as major causes of environmental pollution. Therefore, there is growing interest in materials derived from renewable resources such as biomass. These biomass-based polymers offer the benefits of environmentally friendly materials and solve the problem of waste plastic accumulation. In this study, we suggest isosorbide diglycidyl ether (ISEPO) as a sustainable alternative to diglycidyl ether bisphenol A (DGEBA) as an epoxy monomer. The bio-based thermosets with high degradability were cured via a simple cationic polymerization of ISEPO and ester linkages. We discussed the hydrolysis mechanisms according to the contents of ester bonds and examined various factors affecting the degradation of the thermoset. We also identified potential applications for the use of ISEPO as degradable prepregs for the printed circuit boards. It is expected to be a solution to solve the plastic disposal and microplastic problems caused by non-degradable epoxy composites. The presence of degradable connections in the entire thermoset network structure can contribute to solving fundamental environmental problems and even provide a valuable route to recycling.