ORNL scientists invent plant-based materials to grow nation’s bioeconomy

June 7, 2020 |

In Tennessee, scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are developing new and valuable uses for lignin, a byproduct of biorefineries and the pulp and paper industry. These new product streams can take advantage of the natural properties of lignin in biomass to create materials with unique performance advantages.

ORNL’s lignin-based inventions include:

  • Renewable composites for 3D printing
  • Self-healing elastomers for coatings and glues
  • Shape-memory conductors for sensors and robotics.

Several companies have licensed ORNL’s materials and methods and are actively commercializing some of these new materials.

Category: Research

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