A new scandium based catalyst for the green synthesis of polyols-polyesters starting from waste raw materials

Abstract

Following our previous studies aimed at the valorization of cellulose waste and glycerol, biobased polyols-polyesters were synthesized using both a “green approach” and a novel heterogeneous catalyst based on scandium silicate thortveitite. The latter showed an enhanced linear selectivity compared with most of the analogous catalysts reported in recent studies. Polymers obtained were tested in two important reactions with potential industrial applications: as co-monomers for the synthesis of polyurethanes and as binders for 3D printers. The polyols-polyesters were obtained, with the average molecular weight ranging from 440 to 1050 Da. It is worth noting that the typical polyol polyester used in coatings is branched and has an average molecular weight of 2000–4000 Da.