Biopolymers & Biocomposites Research Team

 

Protein-based Plastics

 

Corn and soy-based protein plastics are being developed as an alternative to petroleum-based plastics. They are biorenewable, biodegradable, and naturally release fertilizers during degradation.

These plastics can be molded into any shape and used with existing equipment. Mechanical properties are similar to petroleum-based plastics. Possible applications include home and garden supplies, toys, building materials, and industrial packaging.

More detailed information about this research area can be found on David Grewell's team page.

Plant Protein-based Flowerpots

Flowerpots made from plant protein plastics. They are biorenewable, biodegradable and naturally release fertilizers during degradation. The customer places the pot and plant together into the soil and within weeks the pot will degrade.