This proposal is designed to align with NDSC's mission, vision, and core values by introducing epoxidized soybean oil as an additive to improve the adhesion and corrosion protection of poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) coatings. Our research team has developed a viable method to modify PVDF-HFP for better chemical compatibility with epoxidized soybean oil. By integrating epoxidized soybean oil, we expect to enhance the corrosion resistance and overall adhesion of PVDF-HFP. This innovative use of soy is advantageous for ND soybean farmers, particularly with the growing demand for sustainable coating solutions from natural sources to meet specific end-use and environmental criteria.

Soybeans have a market value predicted to rise to $214.36 billion by 2025. Exploring new applications of soybean derivatives in corrosion-resistant coatings could create new opportunities for farmers and expand the market from food products to environmentally friendly industrial solutions. The research outcome hopes to lead to the development of soy-based products, enhancing sustainability and profitability in ND's soybean industry. This initiative supports innovation and creates fresh avenues for soybean growers, ensuring their continued success and contribution to environmentally friendly construction practices. Our research team at NDSU specializes in the fabrication of advanced protective coatings, development of corrosion-resistant materials, and use of electrochemical methods to evaluate coatings’ corrosion protection. This proposed project can potentially expand the practical applications of commercially available polymers, boosting their market demand. By advocating for greener coating technologies and utilizing surplus agricultural resources, this approach adds value to soybean crops and promotes a circular economy.

The proposed research aims to explore the efficacy of epoxidized soybean oil as an anticorrosive agent in PVDF-HFP coatings. The key objectives include: (1) achieving successful hydroxyl modification of PVDF-HFP (mPVDF-HFP); (2) evaluating the impact of varying concentrations of epoxidized soybean oil on the corrosion resistance of mPVDF-HFP coatings via electrochemical tests; (3) examining the influence of epoxidized soybean oil on the surface adhesion of mPVDF-HFP on metal surface.

The anticipated deliverables for the proposed project include (1) obtaining hydroxyl-modified PVDF-HFP (mPVDF-HFP), (2) mPVDF-HFP coating systems composed of varying concentrations of epoxidized soybean oil additive, (3) electrochemical and surface adhesion properties of mPVDF-HFP coatings containing epoxidized soybean oil additive. We anticipate that 1-2 peer-reviewed journal publications will result from this proposed project. The key scientific and theoretical findings will also be presented at a soybean-related research or regional/national conference.

The proposed research project presents a substantial benefit to North Dakota soybean farmers by exploring innovative applications of soybean derivatives in corrosion-resistant coatings. Through this research, farmers can expect to see an expanded market for soybeans, not just as a food source but as a key component in eco-friendly industrial and practical products. Farmers will also become acquainted with this new use of soybeans, encouraging them to be more productive in soybean farming. The outcomes of this research hold the potential to drive innovation in the development of new products derived from soybeans. By diversifying the use of soybeans and creating value-added products, the sustainability and economic viability of the soybean industry in North Dakota can be enhanced. This not only opens up new market opportunities but also contributes to reducing waste and maximizing the utilization of soybean resources, thereby benefiting both producers and consumers alike. This aligns with the mission to innovate and create new opportunities for soybean growers, ensuring their continued success and contribution to the green building sector.