Synthesis and Properties of a Bio-based Plasticizer Derived from Fatty Acid Methyl Ester of Erucic Acid

The many applications of phthalate esters and the adverse health effects of phthalate exposure attracted a lot of attention; therefore, it became essential to find a suitable alternative to phthalate derivatives. According to current studies, epoxidized vegetable oils are one of the alternatives that are strongly suggested to replace phthalate esters since they have been demonstrated to be valid in a variety of applications, eco-friendly, and a renewable resource. Using bio plasticizers with nontoxicity and excellent biocompatibility in a wide range of polymer applications is becoming increasingly important. In this study, a bio plasticizer was synthesized by epoxidizing erucic acid fatty acid methyl ester. The final product was compared to a conventional plasticizer. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) was used to confirm the structures of bio-based plasticizers (1H NMR). The bio plasticizer was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). To assess the efficacy of plasticization, mechanical characteristics of the films and migration tests were performed. Mechanical testing of bio plasticizers reveals that they function similarly to conventional plasticizers. The bio plasticizer plasticizing action was further validated by a shift in glass transition temperature (Tg) towards lower temperatures in the plasticized films.