Furfural and CO₂ as Building Blocks for Bioplastics

DalinYebo’s Comment: What a brilliant pathway, to use CO₂ and a furfural derivative, which is made from non-food agricultural residues, instead of food-based feedstock!

Stanford Report, March 9, 2016

Stanford scientists have discovered a novel way to make plastic from carbon dioxide (CO₂) and inedible plant material, such as agricultural waste and grasses. Researchers say the new technology could provide a low-carbon alternative to plastic bottles and other items currently made from petroleum. “Our goal is to replace petroleum-derived products with plastic made from CO₂ …”

Many plastic products today are made from a polymer called polyethylene terephthalate (PET), also known as polyester. Worldwide, about 50 million tons of PET are produced each year for items such as fabrics, electronics, recyclable beverage containers and personal-care products. 

Reference:

news.stanford.edu