Research

Sustainable polyesters from corn as tomorrow’s plastics

Lead Researcher: Marc Hillmyer, director of the Center for Sustainable Polymers

Man with glasses (Marc Hillmyer) poses for a smiling picture in a long contemporary-looking hallway

Marc Hillmyer leads a talented team of researchers developing corn-based plastics.

 

Through their investment in the Minnesota corn check-off, farmers support the University of Minnesota’s Center for Sustainable Polymers (CSP) in their mission to develop the next generation of bioplastics made from renewable sources.

MCGA-supported CSP research aims to replace petroleum as a feedstock for plastics with renewable sources like corn. In doing so, the environmental impact of plastic, both in its making and disposal, could be drastically reduced.

Corn-based plastics, including polylactic acid (PLA) plastics are used today but have some limiting physical property characteristics. Research supported by the state’s corn farmers includes projects that will greatly increase how and where corn-based plastics can be used by adding toughness, strength, better thermal stability, and other characteristics that will expand applications.

For example, CSP researchers are developing a process that increases the ductility of PLA plastics, or the strength of the plastic when stretched. With the added pliability, grocery bags made with PLA will have the potential to be strong and decompose relatively quickly, as opposed to becoming an environmental hazard. Other CSP research supported by MCGA in the years ahead includes using corn to produce eco-friendly plastics and polyesters that make up everyday items from take-home food containers to diapers and glue.

The collaboration between Minnesota’s corn growers and CSP is especially exciting in its potential for both corn farmers and consumers. The research has implications that would help address a number of the major environmental concerns we are facing globally.

By helping fund a diverse portfolio of research at the Center for Sustainable Polymers, the state’s corn growers are identifying a new use for the state’s corn supply with tremendous environmental benefits for all.

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