# I-Corps: Translation Potential of Compostable Core-Shell Impact Modifiers

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Iowa State University (IA) · $50,000

## Abstract

This I-Corps project is based on the development of key additives that are compostable and turn brittle, plant-based plastics into durable materials suitable for everyday products. Currently, unmodified bioplastics like polylactic acid (PLA) break on impact, limiting use despite global demand for sustainable packaging. Each year, more than one million tons of PLA are produced, however, to improve impact strength, it must be blended with petroleum-derived additives, which negates compostability. This technology addresses the challenge by raising PLA’s impact strength by an order of magnitude while maintaining industrial compostable certification. Also, the additive may be supplied as pellets, allowing compounders, film converters, and molders to create tough, monolayer parts without changing equipment. The technology uses glycerol, which is a low-cost by-product of U.S. biodiesel, as its sole feedstock, so it may potentially displace non-degradable modifiers, streamline manufacturing, and enable new markets for bioplastics.

This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with a first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of compostable core-shell particles (CCSPs) as biodegradable impact modifiers for polymer composites. The technology focuses on scalable monomer synthesis, polymerization, and integration of CCSPs into high-dosage master batches, ensuring compatibility with existing processing techniques like extrusion 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2534242
- **Awardee organization:** Iowa State University (IA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** DQDBM7FGJPC5
- **PI:** Eric W Cochran
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Materials Engineering, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
- **Estimated total:** $50,000
- **Funds obligated:** $50,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/15/2025 → 08/31/2026

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2534242

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2534242, I-Corps: Translation Potential of Compostable Core-Shell Impact Modifiers. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2534242. Licensed CC0.

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