Research progress on bio-based polyurethane emulsions

Polyurethane emulsions have been widely used in painting and protection in construction, leather, metal anti-corrosion and other fields due to their excellent performances. Most of the existing polyurethane emulsions are petroleum-based products. With the need for sustainable development as well as the rapid development and large-scale commercialization of bio-based raw materials, bio-based polyurethane emulsions have achieved rapid development. Herein, bio-based raw materials and additives for the synthesis of polyurethane emulsions, including bio-based isocyanates, polyols, chain extenders acrylic acid (acrylate) monomers and other modified raw materials were reviewed. Recent progress on lignin-based, vegetable oil-based, unnatural monomer bio-based and other bio-based polyurethane emulsions was analyzed. Main problems faced by bio-based polyurethane emulsions, including insufficient raw material supply, high cost and poor product performance were discussed. Development directions of bio-based polyurethane emulsions in solvent-free, high bio-based content and multi-functional products were prospected. © 2023 Fine Chemicals. All rights reserved.