We have previously highlighted that bio-renewable PEF (polyethylene furanoate) is an alternate and green plastic for soft drink bottles: PEF is made from ethylene glycol and FDCA (furan-2,5-dicarboxylic acid). As with most furfural derivatives, the chemistry is very old (and forgotten?): FDCA was first obtained in 1876 and is derived from furoic acid, which was first described in 1780. FDCA is one of 12 priority chemicals for establishing the “green” chemistry industry of the future, according to the US Department of Energy.
DalinYebo's Comment: What a brilliant pathway, to use CO2 and a furfural derivative, which is made from non-food agricultural residues, instead of food-based feedstock!
Stanford Report, March 9, 2016
Stanford scientists have discovered a novel way to make plastic from carbon dioxide (CO2) and inedible plant material, such as agricultural waste and grasses. Researchers say the new technology could provide a low-carbon alternative to plastic bottles and other items currently made from petroleum. "Our goal is to replace petroleum-derived products with plastic made from CO2 ..."
Many plastic products today are made from a polymer called polyethylene terephthalate (PET), also known as polyester. Worldwide, about 50 million tons of PET are produced each year for items such as fabrics, electronics, recyclable beverage containers and personal-care products.
Reference:
- PET
- Furoic Acid
- Furfural
- Bioplastics
- FDCA
- PEF
- Biorenewable Chemicals
Source: http://dalinyebo.com/item/1227-plastic-bottles-from-carbon-dioxide-and-a-furfural-derivative