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DOE OSTI · 3024556

Production of high-performance biodegradable polyurethane products made from algae precursors

Burkart, Michael [Univ. of California, San Diego, CA (United States)] (ORCID:0000000244722254)
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Abstract

We successfully developed and scaled the production of high-performance, fully biodegradable thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) derived from algae-based precursors. By employing innovative flow chemistry and chemo-enzymatic methodologies, the research team produced materials with up to 100% bio-based content that match or exceed the mechanical properties of traditional petroleum-based plastics. These algae-derived TPUs were proven to be fully home-compostable, achieving over 90% decomposition within 110 to 120 days while demonstrating practical advantages such as reduced solvent requirements in fabric coating applications.

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36 MATERIALS SCIENCEalgae-based precursorsbio-based contentbiodegradabilityflow chemistrythermoplastic polyurethanes

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Burkart, Michael [Univ. of California, San Diego, CA (United States)] (ORCID:0000000244722254). 2025-01-21. Production of high-performance biodegradable polyurethane products made from algae precursors. https://doi.org/10.2172/3024556

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