Microwave-assisted modification of a solid epoxy resin with a Peruvian oil

A solid epoxy resin was modified with drying vegetable oils via microwave heating to produce one-component epoxy ester resins. These hybrid bio-based resins have an epoxy network that cures at room temperature due to the auto-oxidative capacity of unsaturated fatty acid chains. The influence of the fatty acid source, temperature, and reaction time on viscosity was evaluated using a response surface design. Structure (Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR)), drying behavior, thermal stability (thermogravimetry/ differential thermal analysis (TG/DTG)), and molecular weight distribution (gel permeation chromatography (GPC)) of selected resins were also studied. Paints prepared with representative epoxy ester resins were analyzed to compare the effect of the fatty acid source on anticorrosive properties by electrochemical impedance and salt spray tests. The design of experiments simplified the selection of synthesis conditions to obtain optimal resin film properties. Microwaved-synthesized epoxy ester resins prepared with Peruvian oil are potential raw materials for developing functional anticorrosive paints, as they provide the best corrosion resistance. Its high unsaturation content gives sacha inchi oil the curing properties needed to replace linseed oil in the coatings industry.