Central Ohio Advanced Materials Researchers Develop Bio-Based Alternatives to Plastic

In continuing efforts to find alternatives for petroleum-based products, a team from Battelle’s Advanced Materials Group has announced advancements in the development of bio-plastic packaging made from corn.  Although the idea of using corn as an alternative for oil-based polymers in plastics is not new (Battelle has held patents in this process since the late 90s), end-users were not satisfied with the costs or the characteristics of these early “green” products. 

In response to consumer demand, for the last 18 months, Battelle Advanced Materials researchers have been working with polylactic acid (PLA) polymer, a material created from bacteria fermentation of corn.  The new products developed from this alternative demonstrated improved heat resistance, flexibility and transparency.  In addition, these materials are cost competitive and biodegradable. 

Having filled what they call the technical gaps, researchers are now soliciting consumer and end user feedback to determine next steps in the commercialization of these important alternative materials. 

For more, see the release from Battelle.