Two-component biodegradable polyester adhesive technology
A one-step catalytic process using indium catalysts to produce biodegradable polyester adhesives from epoxides and lactones. These cross-linkable polymers offer a sustainable alternative to traditional two-component epoxy adhesives, with potential applications in bonding biodegradable materials such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs).
Overview
This technology offers a novel approach to creating fully biodegradable two-component polyester adhesives. Using proprietary indium-based catalysts, researchers can couple a wide range of epoxides and lactones in a single-step reaction to produce functional biodegradable polymers. By carefully selecting functional groups to match target substrates, the resulting system functions as a biodegradable equivalent to conventional thermoset two-component epoxy adhesives. The primary target application is bonding polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) bioplastics, addressing a critical gap in sustainable packaging and biomedical materials where fully degradable bonding solutions are needed.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Temperature-triggered one-pot reaction: monomer formation occurs at 60°C and polymerization at 110°C
- Sequence-controlled alternating copolymerization of epoxides and lactones
- Compatible with multiple lactone types (5, 6, and 7-membered lactones) and six different epoxides
- Cross-linkable polymer structure enabling tunable adhesive properties
- Based on spiroorthoester monomers that are both polymerizable and degradable
- Customizable functional groups to match diverse substrate materials
The indium catalyst system enables precise control over polymer architecture, allowing researchers to tailor adhesive properties for specific bonding applications. The resulting polymers can be cross-linked using various methods, providing flexibility in formulation and curing conditions.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at an early-to-mid development stage (TRL 3-4). Researchers have successfully demonstrated monomer synthesis with three different lactones and six epoxides, confirmed exclusive monomer formation at lower temperatures, and shown that these monomers can be polymerized and cross-linked. The next phase involves expanding functional group diversity to optimize adhesion properties on PHA surfaces through peel testing and blend formulation strategies. A postdoctoral researcher could complete initial adhesive development within one year, with an estimated budget of $75,000 covering salary, materials, and testing costs. The technology is ready for sponsored research partnerships to advance toward commercial validation.
About University of British Columbia
UBC is a comprehensive public research university with major campuses in Vancouver and the Okanagan, among Canada’s largest and most internationally connected. Industry engages through a co-op talent pipeline and collaborative research spaces that include co-located clinical settings and on‑campus testbeds. A dedicated technology transfer office brokers partnerships, manages IP and licensing, and is complemented by an active venture accelerator and incubator network. Research is supported by competitive funding from Canada’s Tri‑Council agencies (NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC) and infrastructure investments from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, alongside provincial and industry sponsorship.
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