Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Biobased Epoxy Polymer: Replacing Bisphenol A with Sustainable Alternatives

The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials has sparked interest in biobased polymers, especially in the field of epoxy resins. This review examines recent progress in producing biobased epoxy polymers as substitutes for environmentally harmful petroleum-derived resins, especially the widely utilized diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA). Several renewable alternatives with comparable or improved performance traits have been developed. The review focuses on five prominent biobased sources for epoxy synthesis: polyphenol, lignin, vanillin, sorbitol, and vegetable oil. This review delves into the chemical modifications and polymerization techniques applied to these biobased precursors to achieve desirable epoxy properties, such as mechanical strength, thermal stability, and curing behavior. Furthermore, the paper discusses the challenges and limitations faced during the synthesis of biobased epoxy polymers, including the issues of cost, scalability, and industrial applicability. By exploring various biobased sources and their utilization in epoxy synthesis, this review aims to inspire further research and innovation in the quest for environmentally responsible materials in epoxy applications.