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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Peoria, Illinois » National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research » Plant Polymer Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #119959
Title: AGRICULTURAL CROP SURPLUS AND AGRO-INDUSTRIAL WASTE AS SOURCES OF SUBSTAINABLE POLYMERIC MATERIALS

Author
item Imam, Syed
item Gordon, Sherald
item Harry O Kuru, Rogers

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/16/2000
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Surplus commodity crop, crop residue and industrially processed fruit and vegetable waste represents a tremendous resource of renewable polymeric materials. This report shows that as an alternative to petrochemicals derived from imported petroleum, these materials can be used successfully in sustainable material development. Several examples are provided for the euse of such materials in composites, agricultural mulch films, foams and adhesives. Use of renewable resources would enable to reduce both our dependence on foreign oil and negative trade imbalance. Low cost and inherent biodegradability of naturally produced material is an added advantage for developing single use consumer products. Utilization of such materials will help add value to commodity crops and will result in improved farm economy.