Soy-Based Chemicals and Materials

The use of biobased feedstocks and products produced from them are becoming increasingly established in the chemical industry. Significant advancements in processing, formulation, biotechnology, and chemical modification have enabled biobased materials to be used alongside petroleum hydrocarbon derived materials and provide additional performance capabilities.

There is growing interest in biobased products in the scientific community, industry, and the public sector due to health and environmental issues, interest in sustainability, concerns about petroleum supply, and opportunities for new products and processes. The use of renewable raw materials is an important component of green chemistry. Following the green chemistry principle that a raw material or feedstock should be renewable rather than depleting whenever technically and economically practicable, and with demand for fuels and chemicals growing worldwide, biobased chemicals and processes are being implemented commercially. Renewable alternatives are playing an increasingly important role as basic resources for the production of energy and chemicals while enhancing human and environmental safety. Significant progress has been made, and is continuing, in developing and utilizing chemicals and materials using plant-based feedstocks as a viable and renewable replacement for petrochemicals. The driving forces supporting the growth of a biobased chemical industry segment and the global supply challenges that must be addressed are recognized. The chapters in this book provide examples of new developments and commercially promising biobased products.

Robert Brentin is a new business development professional with a career in bringing new products to market at The Dow Chemical Company. He is currently working on technology and market consulting for biobased chemicals and materials at Omni Tech International. He is a chemical engineering graduate of Case Western Reserve University and is an ACS member. Brentin has served as International Director for Toastmasters International and as President of the Product Development and Management Association.