Conversion of Natural Rubber Into Renewable Polyol for Bio‐Based Polymer Synthesis

ABSTRACT This study highlights the potential of natural rubber (NR) as a renewable, bio‐based feedstock to produce functional polyols. Through a controlled series of reactions (epoxidation, oxidative degradation, and acid hydrolysis), natural rubber was successfully converted into a tunable polyol with adjustable hydroxyl functionality. By varying the degree of epoxidation in the initial step, the properties of the resulting polyol can be tailored for diverse applications, underscoring the flexibility of this approach. Structural confirmation at each synthesis stage was achieved using FTIR and 1 H‐NMR spectroscopy, verifying the introduction of hydroxyl groups and the reduction in molecular weight. To demonstrate its applicability, the rubber‐derived polyol was reacted with isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) to synthesize a bio‐based polyurethane (PU), serving as one potential validation of its functionality. The PU film exhibited excellent performance, including high hardness (> 3H pencil hardness), strong chemical resistance, and good thermal stability. These properties are correlated with the polyol's hydroxyl content and high crosslinking density in the PU. The findings position NR as a versatile and eco‐friendly platform for polyol production. By leveraging its renewable origin and tunable chemistry, NR‐based polyols could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuel‐derived precursors across multiple industries, advancing the shift toward greener material solutions.