Overview of Epoxies and Their Thermosets
Niranjan Karak
Abstract
This chapter provides a general introduction to epoxies with a focus on their hyperbranched architecture and bio-based raw materials. It discusses raw materials and synthetic protocols of conventional and hyperbranched epoxies and presents recent developments in bio-based sustainable epoxies and their curing agents from bio-based raw materials. Characterization of epoxies using conventional techniques, including analytical, spectroscopic, and microscopic techniques, and various testing methods is presented. The chapter also describes the physical, mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical, and biological properties, including biocompatibility, antimicrobial activity, and biodegradability, of such epoxy thermosets and discusses their common applications