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Polymer Sciences | ISSN: 2471-9935

October 02-03, 2017 Chicago, USA

International Conference on

Polymer Science and Engineering

Response surfacemethod optimization of rice straw-liquefactionusing crude glycerol for rigidpolyurethane

foam application

Rosal Jane G Ruda, Kriztine M. Icalina, Arnold A. Lubguban

and

Cañaveral

Mindanao State University, Philippines

Statement of the Problem:

Polyurethane is a versatile class of polymer produced from the condensation polymerization of

isocyanates and polyol, a hydroxyl-rich compound. Its application can be found in adhesives, sealants, coatings, flexible and rigid

foams. However, polyol is traditionally sourced from petroleum raw materials. With increasing environmental and sustainability

problems, lignocellulosic biomass is a potential alternative source due to its abundance, biodegradability and its hydroxyl component.

In the Philippines, 11.3 M tons of rice straw is produced annually which when burned, produces air pollutants such as carbon dioxide,

nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide. Rice straw can be liquefied using an atmospheric liquefaction process with the use of a catalyst.

Researchers reported that varying liquefaction parameters can significantly alter the properties of a polyol3. The purpose of the study

is to produce rice straw-based polyol with a low acid number, high OH number, low viscosity and high liquefaction ratio which is

suitable for rigid foam applications.

Methodology &Theoretical Orientation:

A one-pot liquefaction process was used to liquefy rice straw with the use of sulfuric acid

as catalyst and crude glycerol as liquefaction solvent. Response surface methodology was used to optimize four factors: acid loading,

biomass loading, reaction time and reaction temperature based on four responses: acid number, OH number, liquefaction ratio, and

viscosity.

Findings:

Statistical analysis showed that all four factors have a significant effect on polyol properties. Increasing the acid loading

was shown to significantly increase residual acid while higher reaction times lead to a decrease in liquefaction efficiency. Polyols with

optimum properties were produced at a reaction time of 180-300 minutes, acid loading of 1-2%, reaction temperature of 170-180°C,

and a biomass loading of 10-15%.

Polym Sci, 3:3

DOI: 10.4172/2471-9935-C1-003