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Chemical Recycling of Polylactic Acid

Detailed Technology Description

Executive Summary A new environmentally friendly process developed at Michigan State University derives clean-use plastics from contaminated Polylactic Acid (PLA). This new method of recycling PLA yields clean-use plastics using inexpensive green solvents and lower temperatures. Description of Technology Current chemical recycling of PLA uses toxic solvents at high temperatures to reduce plastics to the lactic acid monomers needed to create clean-use products. MSU researchers have discovered a new method for deriving clean use products from contaminated material. This methodology uses accessible green chemicals and lower temperatures to derive clean-use PLA within 8 days.  Key BenefitsEasily implemented; no need to re-tool plant or purchase new equipmentCost-effective processUses non-toxic chemicalsEnergy efficient – uses lower temperatures for reaction ApplicationsFood storage containersUtensilsBottles Patent Status:  Patent Pending Licensing Rights AvailableFull licensing rights available. Inventors: Dr. Rafael Auras, Fabiola Iniguez-Franco, Dr. Maria Rubino, Herlinda Soto-Valdez, Daniel Holmes, Dr. Susan Selke, Xiaoyi Fang Tech ID: TEC2017-0009

*Abstract

None

*Principal Investigator

Name: Rafael Auras, Associate Professor

Department: School of Packaging

Name: Fabiola Iniguez-Franco, Doctoral Student

Department: School of Packaging

Name: Maria Rubino, Associate Professor

Department: School of Packaging

Name: Herlinda Soto-Valdez, Assistant Professor

Department: School of Packaging

Name: Daniel Holmes, Specialist - Research-Continuing

Department: Chemistry

Name: Susan Selke, Professor & Acting Director

Department: School of Packaging

Name: Xiaoyi Fang

Department:

Country/Region

USA