Sustainable Photoinduced Frontal Polymerization of Acrylic Resins Reinforced by Biofillers

In this study, the synthesis of sustainable biocomposites was successfully achieved using the photo-induced frontal polymerization (PIFP) method, which is highly energy-efficient. A diacrylate containing renewable carbon was selected as a monomer, while a trifunctional acrylate was used as a diluent at different ratios; wood powder and cellulose powder were then added to obtain biocomposites. The maximum amount of wood powder was set at 30 phr by weight, and for cellulose, at 50 phr. In the experiments performed, the effects of the diluent and biofiller amounts on the frontal polymerization velocity, the maximum temperature of the process, and the monomer conversion were investigated. Additionally, depending on the amount of biofillers in the formulation, the photoinitiator, thermal initiator, and light intensity were optimized. Finally, the sample with the highest wood powder content was tested for use as a filler for repairing or joining wooden parts.