Bowden Chemicals, a leading distributor of raw materials to the polyester and phenolic resin industries, is proud to announce it has been awarded a Smart Grant, by government body Innovate UK, to develop an innovative unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) derived from bio-sourced materials.
The 18-month project, which commenced on the 1st April, aims to create a bio-based UPR that matches the performance of traditional petroleum-based resins while incorporating over 50% renewable content.
Traditional UPRs are thermosetting resins formed through the polycondensation of glycols with unsaturated dibasic acids or anhydrides. Typically dissolved in a reactive monomer like styrene, they cure via free radical polymerisation to form hard, durable plastics and composites used across a wide range of industries.
This new bio-based alternative aims to retain all the essential mechanical and thermal properties of conventional UPRs, while significantly reducing environmental impact. By utilising renewable raw materials, the project targets a lower carbon footprint, decreased reliance on fossil fuels, and a more circular, sustainable production model.
Jeff Gould, Managing Director of Bowden Chemicals, commented: “This project marks the beginning of exciting new developments in bio-based UPR technology. Not only will the product offer a more sustainable solution, but its pricing is expected to be comparable to traditional UPRs – potentially transforming the market.” For more information, please contact Bowden Chemicals at info@bowdenchemicals.co.uk or visit www.bowdenchemicals.co.uk.