Grant: Alliance Grants

One of the most urgent global challenges is the need for environmentally and economically sustainable bio-derived composites and plastics within the conceptual framework of the circular economy. Our global center consists of an integrated team directed at (i) sustainable bio-utilization of high-volume bioresources, (ii) intrinsic carbon negativity of the conversion process, (iii) economic sustainability and development of products compatible with the environment, and (iv) fundamental science/engineering of biorefining. Our international team with experts from Canada, England, Japan, Korea, Finland and the USA aimed to advance the current bioeconomy by designing an innovative and comprehensive conversion and utilization approach for waste biomass-derived polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). The center will investigate the fundamental chemistry of biomass pre-processing to reduce its recalcitrance factors and the genetic engineering of Azotobacter vinelandii and Cupriavidus necator to maximize PHA's productivity and molecular weight profile of PHA. Guided by computational modeling of substituted nanocellulose (CN) and nanolignin (NL), functionalized NL and NC will be incorporated into PHA composites for 3/4D printing. The program approach will be continuously guided by whole system analysis including life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis, validating this biorefinery platform approach, whereby all components of the starting bioresources are fully utilized and consistent with environmental and economic sustainability. Our targeted 3/4D printing studies will be directed at preparing functional structures/sensors that respond to environmental pressures and are inspired by biodesign. Finally, we develop system analysis tools for assessment of all major conversion steps to achieve environmentally and economically sustainable bio-derived composites and plastics within the conceptual framework of the circular economy. The Global Center for Sustainable Bioproducts will create and disseminate an innovative international education and learning program for both conventional and non-traditional students.