Albizia Benth Oil Maleinised Polyesteramides: Synthesis, Structure, and Characteristics

Albizia benth oil (ABO) has been employed in the preparation of polyesteramide resin via the condensation of hydroxyethylamide derivatives of ABO fatty acids and phthalic anhydride. The maleinised Albizia benth oil polyesteramide was prepared, using maleinised hydroxyethylamide derivatives of ABO obtained by appending maleate half esters onto the hydroxyethylamide derivative of ABO and phthalic anhydride. Structural elucidation and characterisation of the products carried out revealed that maleic anhydride can successfully be used to modify polyesteramides, to improve its properties such as drying, flexibility, scratch hardness, impact resistance, chemical resistance, and lower curing temperature. 1. Introduction Current interest in cheap and biodegradable polymeric materials has given impetus to the development of materials from readily available, renewable, inexpensive, and natural resources [1]. This interest is justified by the environmental advantages of these substances; zero net carbon and biodegradability. These polymeres also constitute a new outlet for vegetable products [2]. In Nigeria, vegetable oil-dependent industries rely mostly on imported oils; oils such as linseed and soybean are very expensive. However, ABO is an agricultural byproduct, abundantly available in the country. It holds considerable promise as a source of unsaturated oil and suitable for the production of industrial chemical feedstocks. A class of alkyd-resins polymers from ABO have earlier been prepared [3, 4]. Just like other commercially viable polymers are currently being investigated. This research is aimed at synthesizing, characterising and evaluating ABO polyesteramide, modified by maleinisation for improved film characteristics over the conventional alkyds. It is part of the ongoing investigation on the preparation of new polymeric materials from ABO. Results of possible application of Albizia benth seed oil outlined in this research could trigger an expansion albizia plant cultivation, a development that will improve income of peasant farmers. Similarly, many industries will have cheaper raw materials to use, leading to inexpensive consumer items. Environmental friendly and boidegradable polymers, produced from the biobased chemical feedstock, will promote a cleaner environment. 2. Experimental 2.1. Collection of Samples Albizia benth seeds were collected from nearby farms and bushes in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria. The seeds were milled on a C&N Junior Laboratory mill size 5 (Christy and Norris Limited Engineers, Chemlsford, UK). 2.2. Extraction and Refining of Oil