Catalysis

Synthesis of surfactants from cellulosic material through a biocatalyzed process. This novel process for the synthesis of surfactants does not require large amounts of energy nor organic solvents. This technology can decrease carbon dioxide emissions and reduce deforestation from palm plantations. Conventional surfact production is based on petrochemicals and seed oils, such as palm oil. Surfactant synthesis involves highly hazardous compounds to human health and the environment. 

Second-generation surfactant that improves the solubility of organic compounds in water. The second generation surfactant, TPGS-750M, allows some organic reactions to be carried out in an aqueous system by improving the solubility of organic compounds in water. This surfactant is composed of safe, inexpensive ingredients and only a small concentration is required for effectiveness. After the reaction, the surfactant can be recovered and reused with minor deactiviation. Organic solvents are traditionally used for organic reactions because they are not soluble in water.

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, and detergent, oil, and gas industries. TPA functions as a more sustainable alternative to convetional 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.

Atom Transfer Radical Polymerizatoin (ATRP) for manufacturing polymers. ATRP is the most effecting method of controlled radical polymerization (CRP). The ATRP process allows for the easy formation of polymers by assembling monomors in a piece-by-piece fashion. This allows for the production of a wide range of polymers with specific functions and properties. The ATRP process uses enviromentally friends chemicals, such ascorbic acid, and requires less transition metal catalysts.

Catalysts that use carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide to produce polymers. Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide are ideal feedstocks for chemistry because they are abundant, renewable, and easily extracted at low costs. This technology polymerizes carbon dioxide and epoxides into polycarbonates that can be used as feedstocks to produce pharmaceuticals and plastics. Novomer Inc uses polycarbonate coating in their electronics though a process called Novo™.

Plastic polymer made from the contact between methane-based gas mixture and common atmospheric gases. This technology uses natural ocean organisms to make PHB from air and greenhouse gases. This PHB is AirCarbon. AirCarbon can be melted and cooled into fibers, sheets, and solid parts in order replace synthetic plastic and animal leather. PHB is natural and natural microorganisms can consume it. AirCarbon anaerobically digests into greenhouse gases that can be used to make new Air Carbon.