A novel approach to design structural natural fiber composites from sustainable CO2-derived polyhydroxyurethane thermosets with outstanding properties and circular features

• DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesa.2024.108311
• Publication Date: 2024-06-13T17:48:37Z
• Authors: Guillem Seychal; Pierre Nickmilder; Vincent Lemaur; Connie Ocando; Bruno Grignard; Philippe Leclère; Christophe Detrem...; Roberto Lazzaroni; Haritz Sardon; Nora Aranburu; Jean-Marie Raquez
• Keywords: Scalable Vector Graphics

We herein propose capitalizing on strong hydrogen bonding from novel bio-CO2-derived dynamic thermosets to achieve high-performance natural fiber composites (NFC) with circular features. CO2- and biomass-derived polyhydroxyurethane (PHU) were selected, for the first time of our knowledge, as matrices their ability make H-bond, resulting in outstanding mechanical properties NFC. Exploiting this H-bond key feature, exceptional interface between flax PHU was confirmed by atomic force microscopy rationalized atomistic simulation. Without any treatment, an increase 30% stiffness strength unveiled compared epoxy benchmark, reaching 35 GPa 440 MPa respectively. Related thermoreversible nature hydroxyurethane moieties, cured flax-PHU successfully self-welded displayed promising properties, together recyclability This opens advanced opportunities that cannot be reached epoxy-based composites. Implementing CO2-derived NFC could lead more materials, critical achieving sustainability goals.