Synthesis and application of UV responsive detachable adhesives from epoxidized plant oils

Abstract

Permanent adhesives pose significant environmental concerns because they cannot be reversed or recycled, limiting repair, reuse, and material recovery. Temporary and reversible adhesives offer a better option by allowing removal, repair, and recycling when needed. In this study, UV-responsive adhesives were prepared from natural oils, including castor, sesame, mustard, and eucalyptus, without using a photoinitiator. Five formulations (UVad-1 to UVad-5) were developed and tested. Their physical, structural, and mechanical properties were evaluated. Samples containing sesame and castor oil (UVad-4) and samples with eucalyptus and mustard oil (UVad-5) exhibited superior detachment and reusability, achieving up to 10 and 12 cycles of bonding and debonding under 638.79 KN m⁻² and 532.97 KN m⁻² applied stress, respectively. Mechanical strength was also evaluated under UV and non-UV conditions. Results indicate that these materials are suitable for temporary yet robust bonding and reuse.