Researchers from Iowa State University in the U.S. are developing a method for reinforcing plastics made from corn and soy proteins by using nanoclays. Researcher Michael Kessler said that working with nanoclays involves using high-powered ultrasonics to separate and evenly mix clay platelets with the plastics, which are then molded and extruded using microcellular foaming technologies. The article says that the technology is anticipated to decrease the amount of feedstock materials needed to make biodegradable plastics while concurrently enhancing the plastics’ properties. The article says that the plastics could be used in disposable wrappings for bales of hay, pots for plants, and food industry packaging.
