Exploring the Feasibility of Corn and Canola Oil in Alkyd Resin Paint Production

Authors: Medha Chandwani, Monika Eckenberg

SUNY Campus: Purchase College

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: Old Union Hall

Presentation #: 39

Timeslot: Session C 1:45-2:45 PM

Abstract: Alkyd resin is a durable, flexible binder in decorative and protective paints, drying faster than traditional oil paints. Produced through the polycondensation of polyols, polyacids, and fatty acids, alkyd resins are more eco-friendly as they incorporate higher amounts of biobased materials, derived from vegetable oils like soybean and linseed oil. While these oils offer better drying properties, this study investigates corn and canola oils as viable alternatives, aiming to improve sustainability and reduce costs in production. In Stage 1, the oil and glycerol underwent alcoholysis at approximately 250°C, with calcium oxide as a catalyst. The resulting monoglyceride was confirmed by testing an aliquot’s solubility in methanol. While this stage was successful for the soybean oil (control), the corn and canola oils did not completely form their monoglyceride; therefore, methanol was added to the mixtures. The soluble monoglyceride in methanol was separated from the insoluble waste, followed by simple distillation to isolate the monoglyceride from methanol. In Stage 2, phthalic anhydride and xylene were added to the monoglyceride to form the polyester structure. Acid values were periodically tested via titration, with values below 10 mg KOH/g indicating successful resin formation. For instance, the soybean-based resin achieved a value of 5.94 mg KOH/g. To evaluate performance, paint was prepared by adding titanium dioxide as the pigment and xylene as a thinner. Properties like drying times, adhesiveness, and resistance were tested to compare the control sample with the experimental samples.