A Review on the Synthesis and Applications of Selected Thermoset–Matrix Composites in Green Energy

The adoption of sustainable forms of energy is necessary to aid in reducing the global dependence on fossil fuels. As demands for various forms of renewable energy continue to increase, not only should the quantity of devices increase, but the quality of these resources should be considered as well. Materials play a crucial role in the construction and operation efficiency of renewable energy resources. Much of the literature that is currently available on this topic focuses on specialized thermoplastic or elastomeric components in renewable energy devices. While these studies are valuable, thermosetting polymers are largely left out of this discussion. Although thermoplastics may also be considered as the matrix material for polymer matrix composites (PMCs), the elevated processing temperatures, high melt viscosity levels, and lower stiffness of these materials is less attractive for the structural applications discussed in this work. Currently, reinforced thermose–matrix composites are used as wind turbine blades, hydroelectric turbines, solar panel base boards, and coatings or encapsulants on solar panel devices. An evaluation of these crucial engineering materials is essential to improve the performance of renewable energy devices to lower the worldwide reliance on fossil fuels. Throughout this report, the synthesis of thermosets and their corresponding monomers for application in renewable energy has been discussed. For this purpose, the study has been conducted in two major sections. The dividing line is based on the main polymerization methods: step growth and chain growth. For each category, a brief background has been provided. Then, some selective thermoset polymers with their synthetic methods and novel applications in renewable energy field have been discussed.