Formulation and Characterization of Rosin-Based Bioresins Modified with Palm Wax, Microwax, and Olein for Sustainable Biocomposite Applications

Siti Agustina, Fajriyan Fajriyan, Lukman Junaidi, Aton Yulianto, Wiwik Handayani, Eddy Sapto Hartanto, Karnadi Karnadi, Budiyanto Budiyanto, Ahmad Suhendra, Ade Saepudin, Ahmad Kamil, Firdha Aulya Syamani

Abstract

The formulation of sustainable bioresins sourced from renewable materials generates considerable opportunities for biocomposite uses in sectors such as food, packaging, and cosmetics. This research focused on the formulation and characterization of rosin-based bioresins that were modified with palm wax, microwax, and olein at various concentrations (5%, 10%, and 15%). The bioresins were formulated by melting rosin and subsequently adding additives, followed by casting and cooling processes. The analysis using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) verified the presence of functional groups associated with the resin’s esterification and the addition of additives. The assessment of thermal stability was performed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), which indicated distinct degradation phases that were affected by the type and concentration of the additives. DSC revealed distinct melting temperatures (Tm) ranging from 40 to 90 °C and glass transition temperatures (Tg) from 60 to 230 °C. TGA showed degradation onset temperatures (Td) between 370 and 410 °C, indicating excellent thermal stability across all formulations. Hardness testing demonstrated composition-dependent mechanical reinforcement, with B-series and C-series presenting improved resistance compared to A-series. The combined thermal–mechanical evaluation demonstrates that bioresin B provides the most balanced performance due to synergistic contributions of microcrystalline wax, yielding improved hardness (13.12 ± 10.43 kg in B₂) while maintaining high thermal stability (Td = 390 °C). These findings highlight the potential of modified bioresins as sustainable alternatives with tunable structure–property relationships suited for packaging films, protective coatings, and solid cosmetic matrices. Thermal analysis indicated enhanced stability in systems modified with palm wax and microwax, while olein contributed to an increase in flexibility at the expense of thermal resistance. Overall, modified bioresin B emerged as the optimal formulation for structural and packaging applications due to its superior thermal stability, increased hardness, and enhanced molecular interactions.

Keywords

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DOI: 10.14416/j.asep.2026.04.010

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