Synthesis of palm-based polyurethane-LiClO4 via prepolymerization

Palm-based polyurethane (pPU) with varying lithium salt (LiClO4) content was synthesized. Higher loading percentage of LiClO4 in the pPU led to the inhibition of prepolymerization process from taking place. Hydrogen bonded C=O was detected in the FTIR spectrum indicating the hydrogen bonding between the urethane bonds. Ordered complexed C=O was observed in the FTIR spectrum confirming the complex formation between urethane bond and Li+ ion. DSC thermogram showed the increase in the LiClO4 content could increase the glass transition temperature. SEM micrographs exhibited that more bubbles were formed when the LiClO4 increased from 10 to 30wt% indicating the reaction between free isocyanate groups with moisture presence in the salt due to the hygroscopic properties of LiClO4.