Biobased Semi-Crystalline Non-Isocyanate Polyurethane-Acrylate Hybrids as Wax Crystal Modifiers for Flow Assurance

Non-isocyanate polyurethane (NIPU) is a sustainable polymer derived from cyclic carbonates and amines. Existing NIPUs are either soluble in polar solvents or insoluble due to cross-linking. This study presents semicrystalline NIPU-acrylate hybrid polymers synthesized via aza-Michael functionalization using biobased acrylates. Acylation with acetic anhydride enhances solubility. These NIPUs combine ester and urethane groups in the backbone and long alkyl ester side chains, offering oil-solubility and semicrystallinity. They serve as wax crystal modifiers or pour point depressants by reducing pour points by up to 21 °C and viscosity by 99%, transforming wax into a flowable spherulitic structure for improved flow assurance.