Synthesis and application of bio-polyol from vegetable oil: Comparison of synthesis methods and fabrication of environmentally friendly bio-based oil-absorbing foams

Abstract

In recent years, oil pollution caused by industrial discharges and oil spills has become a growing environmental concern, prompting the demand for efficient, biodegradable, and eco-friendly oil absorbent materials. Bio-based polyurethane (bio-PU) foams synthesized from renewable resources have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional synthetic sorbents due to their sustainability and potential for environmental compatibility. This study focuses on the comparative synthesis of bio-polyols from vegetable oils using different chemical routes, including epoxidation-ring opening, transesterification, and oxidative modification. Each method yields polyols with distinct hydroxyl numbers, viscosities, and chemical structures, which directly influence the foaming behavior and final properties of the resulting bio-PU foams. Furthermore, lignocellulosic biomass (e.g., agricultural residues or natural fibers) is incorporated into the foam matrix to enhance oil sorption capacity and structural performance. The synthesized foams are characterized in terms of morphology, porosity, oil absorption efficiency, and mechanical stability. The main objectives of this research are: (1) to evaluate and compare different bio-polyol synthesis methods from vegetable oils; (2) to develop biomass-reinforced bio-PU foams using the synthesized polyols; and (3) to assess the potential of these materials as sustainable oil absorbents. The findings are expected to contribute to the development of green materials for oil spill remediation and to promote the valorization of renewable resources in polymer engineering.