Castor oil is well known to act as a versatile feed material for the production of a diverse range of chemicals derivatives and polymers are one among the well known class of products derived from this edible oil. castor oil’ anomaly amidst numerous vegetable oils to yield diverse polymer types as polyurethanes, polyesters and poly-amides is greatly attributed to its constituent fatty acid, ricinoleate. From the days of its discovery, chemical exploitation over this substance in the industrial world is never ending to either produce new or polymers with improved functional properties.
To elucidate the comment, German polymer firm, BASF has made an alliance with Ford to supply with polyurethanes derived from castor oil for its automobile panels. Reports from the German manufacturer claim that their bio-product in addition to sustainability and GHG reductions offers its clients with tensile strength, softness and fascinating gesture in the instrumental panels of the vehicle. Ford’ advanced product development engineer also appreciated castor oil for its role in vehicle craftsmanship, mitigation of petrochemical usage and introduction of product novelty to their North American customers.
For reference: http://www.polyurethanes.basf.com/pu/KUInternet/KU/en_GB/content/intranews/News_2011/First_Castor_Oil_Based_Foam_in_the_2012_Focus
Get to know more about related derivatives:
- 2 Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12 HSA)
- Dehydrated Castor Oil (DCO)
- Ricinoleic Acid
- Pale Pressed Grade
- BP Grade Castor Oil