Preparation and properties of UV-curable multi-arms cardanol-based acrylates

A series of multi-arms cardanol-based acrylates (CGHA, CDHA, CTHA) were synthesized using renewable cardanols and bio-based polyols (glycerol, diglycerol, tripilyglycerol) as precursors. The structures and molecular weights of the cardanol-based acrylates were characterized by FT-IR, 1 H NMR and GPC , respectively. The synthesized multi-arms cardanol-based acrylates were used to produce UV-curable films and coatings. High mechanical strength as well as good biodegradability of the UV-cured films was obtained. The important coating film properties, such as hardness, gloss and adhesion were also investigated. The results showed that the coatings with high bio-based content exhibit good adhesion, gloss and acid-resistance, which is comparable to the soybean oil (AESO)-based and polyester acrylate.