Synthesis of thermoset elastomer from microbial oil derived from the fermentation of sugarcane

Abstract

In the context of the 21st century, the integration of diverse perspectives within the circular economy framework, encompassing waste management, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, stands out as a paramount challenge. Addressing this challenge, an innovative avenue emerges through the application of microbial oil to replace traditional petroleum in the synthesis of essential commodity chemicals. This groundbreaking study takes a significant step toward this goal by introducing a pioneering polyester material boasting an exceptionally high renewable content. This material is synthesized through melt polycondensation, utilizing a novel primary feedstock derived from the oily residue extracted post-distillation of β-farnesene (FDR). The ingenious approach involves fermenting sugarcane syrup using a genetically engineered yeast strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The outcome of this study reveals the creation of an amorphous polymer with rubber-like attributes. These attributes include a Young's modulus of 3.9 MPa, with a maximum elastic strain and tensile stress values of 185.4% and 510 KPa, respectively, along with distinctive strain-hardening characteristics. Remarkably, this material also exhibits indications of shape memory behavior in a temperature range spanning from 47 to 12C, as discerned from dynamic mechanical analysis. Evidently, this novel polymer demonstrates exceptional promise in the realm of low-temperature applications. Its intrinsic ability to uphold mechanical integrity, even when subjected to substantial deformations within its service conditions, positions it as an invaluable resource for various components requiring resilience in challenging environments.