Two synthetic routes for the production of thermal polyaspartic acid. TPA is a non-toxic, biodegradable, and cost-effective polymer with applications in many industrial processes, such as agriculture, water treatment, detergent, and oil and gas industries. TPA functions as a more sustainable alternative to conventional polyacrylic acids (PAC). The first route for the synthesis of TPA consists of a solventless solid-state-polymerization-reaction that transforms the aspartic acid monomor into polysuccinimide, eliminating the use of organic solvents. This process only generates water as a byproduct and has a 97% yield. The polysuccinimide is then hydrolyzed into polyasparate in a reaction with zero waste and high yields. The second route improves the polymerization step by using a catalyst that lowers the reaction temperature. This step enhance the products performance and biodegradability.
EPA Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge: 1996 Small Business Award
Donlar Corporation
