Location: Plant Polymer Research
Project Number: 5010-41000-180-006-N
Project Type: Non-Funded Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Sep 1, 2024
End Date: Aug 31, 2029
Objective:
The main goal is to establish scientific cooperation in the areas of agro-based biopolymers, bioplastics, plastic alternatives, biobased packaging materials, alternative plant-based proteins and zero waste management, utilizing relevant indigenous agricultural crops. Secondly, the work aims to enhance the research and development capabilities of the Participants through sharing of technical knowledge, training, scientist exchanges, technology transfer, and/or setting-up of demonstration facilities.
Approach:
ARS NCAUR and Cooperator will initially engage in cooperative research and development activities that utilize relevant indigenous established or novel agricultural crops in the following fields:
• Bioproducts and biopolymers from agricultural feedstocks and associated biodegradability assessment
• Biopolymer extrusion and molding technology
• Biobased surfactants, emulsifiers, resins and composites
• Novel high-value proteins from indigenous agricultural crops
• Fermentation-based bioproducts
ARS NCAUR and Cooperator will participate in conducting parallel research, scientist exchanges, training of personnel, technology transfer, and/or setting up of demonstration facilities to enhance technical knowledge on both sides. Individual research activities (including their scope and operating procedures) supported under this NFCA may be covered at the discretion of the relevant cooperating bodies in separate written implementing arrangements jointly developed by the scientists from ARS NCAUR and Cooperator in each specific case. ARS NCAUR and Cooperator and their respective offices will handle their own activities and utilize their own resources in pursuing cooperative activities carried out under this Agreement. ARS and Cooperator may modify or extend the NFCA by mutual written determination.