Bio-Based Oligomers: Progress, Applications, and Future Perspectives

In response to escalating environmental concerns, the coatings industry is experiencing a profound shift towards sustainability. Central to this transformation are advanced technologies such as water-borne coatings, radiation-curable solutions, and high-solid powder coatings. These innovations are complemented by the increasing use of bio-based materials derived from biomass or biomass-dependent processes, which serve as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-based materials. These bio-based materials not only provide versatility through chemical modifications but also facilitate advanced curing techniques, significantly enhancing the sustainability profile of coatings. Recent research has made notable strides in developing coatings with high bio-renewable content, highlighting the sector's commitment to reducing environmental impact. This review comprehensively examines recent advancements in this field, focusing on the integration of bio-based oligomers into various coating formulations. It discusses the progress in creating durable and eco-friendly coatings, explores diverse applications, and provides insights into emerging trends and future directions. Key areas of exploration include the use of essential oils, vegetable oils, and bio-based polymers in wood coatings, advancements in flame-retardant bio-based materials, and the development of solvent-free solid polymers using deep eutectic solvents. Additionally, the review covers innovative applications such as electrochromic devices using biomass-derived materials, the use of biomass-derived functional materials for enzyme immobilization, and the challenges and breakthroughs in lignin depolymerization. The integration of bio-based materials with UV-curable technology and the development of aqueous two-phase extraction processes for bio-based monomers further underscore the sector's shift towards sustainable practices. By synthesizing and analyzing these advancements, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding sustainable coatings, highlighting opportunities for further innovation and providing a roadmap for future research in the development of environmentally friendly coating solutions.