Vegetable oil-derived thermoplastic resins for sustainable injection molding
Developing biobased thermoplastic resins from vegetable oil and PBAT, offering a sustainable alternative to polypropylene and polyethylene for injection molding applications.
Overview
The development of biobased thermoplastic resins derived from vegetable oil and polybutylene adipate tetraphthalate (PBAT) presents a promising sustainable alternative to conventional plastics such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). By synthesizing a co-polymer that combines the biodegradability of PBS and VOB, this innovation aims to reduce environmental impact while maintaining competitive mechanical properties. The structural similarity to Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) allows for compatibility with established polymers, facilitating easier integration into existing manufacturing and recycling systems. Additionally, the inherent flexibility of the VOB structure enables the creation of multiple formulations tailored to specific mechanical requirements.
Technical specifications
- Synthesis process: Involves transesterification, epoxidation, ring opening, and polycondensation reactions to create a biopolymer component.
- Combination and polymerization: The biopolymer is combined with PBS in a torque rheometer for melt-polymerization.
- Customization: Various ratios of VOB to PBS to achieve desired mechanical properties, closely replicating PP and PE performance.
- Testing and validation: Includes tensile strength, melt flow index (MFI), biodegradation, rheological properties, and direct food contact suitability.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology is in the validation phase involving detailed chemical characterization and mechanical testing. The project is planned over a year, focusing on synthesizing co-polymers and evaluating their performance against traditional plastics.
About South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university serving a large statewide community. Industry engages through a university‑linked research and technology park that colocates tenant companies with faculty labs and pilot‑scale processing suites for de‑risking and demonstration. A statewide extension network and field sites provide real‑world environments for validation and market feedback, while shared‑use core facilities and tailored workforce pipelines connect talent and tools to corporate R&D. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from USDA and NSF, with additional awards from NIH and DOE, alongside state and industry partnerships. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP and industry agreements, and incubator space at the research park supports startup formation and scale‑up.
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