Journal of Scientific Engineering Advances

Abstract

Non-isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPUs) made by cyclic-carbonate aminolysis promise a route toward hydroxyurethane networks without conventional isocyanate precursors. Palm oleochemicals provide accessible triglyceride, fatty-acid and potentially lignocellulosic feedstocks, yet chemical renewability does not establish industrial durability or environmental superiority. This critical qualitative literature review synthesises journal evidence published in 2020-2026 across feedstock engineering, epoxidation and carbon dioxide carbonation, network formation, interfacial behaviour, foams and protective materials, reprocessing, and life-cycle assessment. It introduces a Feedstock-Carbonation-Network-Performance (FCNP) framework that connects feedstock functionality and batch consistency with carbonate conversion, cure kinetics, molecular topology, practical service-life requirements, and end-of-life options. The evidence supports chemical feasibility and several compelling analogies from soybean, linseed, lignin and hybrid polyhydroxyurethane systems, while revealing limited palm-specific qualification under realistic industrial exposure. Hydroxyl-rich networks can promote adhesion but may exacerbate water uptake; increased crosslink density can improve chemical resistance while impairing reprocessability. Carbon dioxide incorporation is a chemical transformation, not inherently permanent sequestration or a negative-carbon manufacturing route. The review proposes application-specific qualification gates, including comparative curing, wet adhesion, hydrothermal and ultraviolet ageing, repeatable pilot-scale processing, and functional-unit life-cycle and techno-economic evaluation. Palm-derived NIPUs are positioned as promising conditional candidates for selected coatings, adhesives, flexible systems and foams rather than proven general replacements for conventional polyurethanes.