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High Strength Lignin Based Plastics

Detailed Technology Description

High Lignin Plastics with Impressive Tensile StrengthA new generation of lignin plastics feature very high lignin content and exhibit comparable—or even superior—properties compared to conventional PMMA and polystyrene. These innovative polymeric materials contain at least 80% lignin and are predominantly comprised of methylated or non-methylated ligninsulfonate. These plastics show promising tensile strength, and plasticizers or other polymers can further enhance their mechanical properties. Click here to view the Non-confidential Summary.Lignin Content More Than DoubledCurrent lignin-based plastics lack satisfactory mechanical properties and previous processes have limited the amount of lignin that can be incorporated, as they exhibit significant degradation with more than 35-40% lignin content. The high-lignin plastics and polymeric materials show promising tensile strengths with formulations using 85-100% lignin content. Not only are these plastics stronger than current lignin-based plastics, but they add value to the bio-refining and pulp industries that produce lignin as a byproduct and most often burn it for its fuel value. This technology offers a route to realizing significant commercial value from lignin in the form of a new renewable plastic.BENEFITS AND FEATURES:Eco-friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-based plasticsComparable or even superior to conventional polystyrene and poly(methyl methacrylate) PMMAIncreased lignin content and higher durability than most lignin-based plasticsTensile strength >50 MPaFully biodegradableCost-reduction of biofuel production by commercializing lignin side productAPPLICATIONS:All applications in which plastics are used (polystyrene replacement in engineered plastic, non-petroleum or bioplastics, BPA-free plastics)Could replace plastic film or netting residues in agricultural or soil erosion control applicationsNon-packaging applications (e.g., automotive, furniture, appliance and other durablePhase of DevelopmentProof of concept demonstrating high-strength plastics with high ligninsulfonate and methylated ligninsulfonate content. Plastic samples made and mechanical properties tested in the laboratory.

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USA