Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists in Peoria, Ill., have done it again.
They've added yet another invention to an already long list of oleochemical accomplishments—a list that includes petroleum-free newspaper ink, industrial lubricants, hydraulic fluids and aircraft deicers.
Their latest addition is a "hydrogel." Made from soybean oil, it's a squishy but durable polymer that expands and contracts in response to changes in temperature or acidity levels. These characteristics make it "suitable for use in the hair-care and drug-delivery areas," said ARS chemist Sevim Z. Erhan. Another potential use is in wound dressings.
Erhan and ARS chemist Zengshe Liu developed the hydrogel in studies at ARS's National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research in Peoria. Their invention dovetails with the Center's mission of developing new, value-added uses for corn, soybeans, and other Midwest crops, which will benefit farmers, processors, and consumers. A key focus of the Center is to explore options to reduce the myriad uses of petroleum, which include making fuel and polymers like plastic.