Novel Biobased Polyester Resins for Wood Applications: Morphological, Thermal, and Chemical Characterization

The present study focuses on the interaction of recently synthesized unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs) with wood. The UPRs are prepared from succinic acid, maleic anhydrite, and ethylene glycol or poly(ethylene glycol) as biobased monomers and crosslinked with acrylic acid. In this framework, small 3-ply composite specimens (0.1 x 2.5 x 10 cm) of wood veneers are prepared with such binders to investigate their interaction with wood. The produced experimental specimens are studied with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, and scanning electron microscopy to explore their morphological and thermal degradation characteristics, as well any chemical changes from the interaction of the UPRs with wood. The experimental results indicate no chemical changes from their interaction with wood.