Location: Bioproducts Research
Project Number: 2030-41000-068-012-T
Project Type: Trust Fund Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Apr 1, 2024
End Date: Mar 31, 2025
Objective:
Utilize the USDA Agricultural Research Service, Bioproducts Research Unit at the Western Regional Research Center in Albany, California considerable experience and equipment to develop marine bio-based biodegradable chemicals to shift away from poly vinyl alcohol (PVA) currently used in laundry sheets.
Approach:
Earth Breeze’s current laundry sheets are made from polyvinyl alcohol with plasticizers and anti-blocking agents. Earth Breeze is strategically committed to shifting away from PVA to bio-based film forming materials. The intent of the partnership (trust agreement) is to leverage marine agriculturally-derived biodegradable materials in the creation of a new film platform for home care (e.g. laundry, all-purpose cleaners, bathroom cleaners, toilet cleaners, etc.) and personal care (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, foaming hand wash, etc.). The goals will be accomplished through small-scale formula optimization efforts utilizing the USDA’s chemical synthesis and characterization capabilities including analytical equipment (e.g. differential scanning calorimetry, tensile strength/elongation, OECD biodegradability, etc.) and process pilot plant capabilities (extruders, carver press, drum dryer, infrared dryer, etc.).
