Cottonseed oil–derived resin system for use in bio-based artificial leather

In this study, a method of using cottonseed oil as the main component for the preparation of bio-based compositions for the new generation of artificial leather was investigated. Genuine leather is considered a renewable, bio-based product. However, ecological issues caused by leather processing have led to a significant productivity decrease in this industry. As a result, artificial leather, made of polyvinyl chloride and polyurethane, has been commonly used in both industrial and commodity applications. These synthetic alternatives show similar properties to genuine leather but are composed of fossil oil–based materials. Therefore, extensive research is being conducted to utilize renewable materials in the manufacturing of artificial leather. The cottonseed oil–based leather prototype was prepared according to the classic three-layer structure approach that is currently used in synthetic leather manufacturing. Epoxidized cottonseed oil was used to create the top and foamed layers of leather, while the third layer consists of cotton fabric. The properties of the individual layers of leather were evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. By combining all layers, artificial leather prototypes were fabricated. Layers made of functionalized cottonseed oil possess flexibility and softness characteristic of traditional synthetic leather.