Summary
In recent years, biopolymers have risen to the forefront of discussions on sustainability in plastics. Biopolymers, both bio-sourced and biodegradable, offer the promise of being more environmentally friendly than virgin, single-use feedstock. However, biopolymers offer varying degrees of sustainability as well as unique challenges for plastic processors and manufacturers.
Replacing traditional polyolefins with biopolymers presents a broad challenge to plastics professionals to match incumbent performance properties, including changes in formulations and processing. Even within the categories of bio-sourced and biodegradable materials, these polymers have varying levels of sustainability. Finally, other than performance in comparison to petroleum-based products, adoption is limited due to feedstock availability and cost.
Join us in this second part of the panel discussion series focused on the advances in biopolymers where Professor Eric Cochran from Iowa State University, Dr. Raj Krishnaswamy, Vice President of R&D at CJ Bio, and Professor Megan Robertson from the University of Houston will explore the various developments in biopolymer research.
Speakers
Mary Jane Skogen Hagenson and Randy L. Hagenson Professor, Iowa State University
Vice President, Polymers R&D, CJ Biomaterials
Cullen College of Engineering Professor, William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston
