Feasibility Assessment of BIO-PUR Composites for Offshore Applications

The quest for sustainable materials in offshore renewable energy is critical for mitigating the environmental concerns associated with the use of conventional composites. This study explores the potential of vegetable oil-based polyurethanes (BIO-PUR) as a sustainable alternative to petrochemical-based resins in offshore structural applications. BIO-PUR composites were fabricated, mechanically characterized, and subjected to real-world marine environments in the HarshLab floating laboratory, with exposure durations of 3 and 5 months in both atmospheric and immersion zones. Comprehensive testing, including dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) assessments, showed no significant degradation in the mechanical, thermal, or chemical properties of the composites. Notably, water absorption remained minimal, and the glass transition temperature of the material (T_g) and interlaminar strength remained unchanged after exposure, highlighting the exceptional durability of BIO-PUR in harsh marine environments. These results suggest that BIO-PUR composites could not only meet but potentially surpass the performance requirements for long-term offshore applications, offering a highly promising eco-friendly alternative to traditional composites. This study provides a foundation for future research into the long-term viability of biobased materials in offshore energy systems, paving the way for more sustainable solutions in renewable energy infrastructures.