RAPID CITY, S.D. – The South Dakota School of Mines is set to advance its research efforts in sustainable manufacturing, thanks to a generous grant of $500,000 from the national Science Foundation. The fund will be used to establish a state-of-the-art cell-free manufacturing lab, focusing on the development of biodegradable plastics.
Dr. Tanvi Govil, an assistant professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, will lead the groundbreaking research initiative. By exploring the technology surrounding the synthesis of next-generation biopolymers and biomaterial precursors, South Dakota Mines aims to drive innovation in the bioplastics sector. Biomaterial precursors are crucial building blocks in the creation of bioplastics and other biologically derived materials.
Dr. Govil’s primary research objective is to develop bio-derived versions of nylon, rubber, and Polyether ether Ketone ingredients, known for their versatility and wide range of applications. These ingredients will form the basis of environmentally friendly alternatives that are completely biodegradable.
I will be making products… that have the potential to replace fossil fuel-dependent plastics, emphasized Dr. Govil. Products that would be 100% biodegradable.
The South Dakota School of Mines is now among an elite group of only five universities in the United States to establish a cell-free manufacturing lab, joining the ranks of prestigious institutions such as MIT, Harvard University, Northwestern University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
This significant investment in South Dakota Mines highlights the growing importance of research into sustainable manufacturing and eco-friendly materials. The development of biodegradable plastics not only addresses the global challenge of plastic pollution but also offers the potential to revolutionize industries by mitigating environmental impact.
The establishment of the cell-free manufacturing lab will pave the way for groundbreaking research and foster collaboration with industry partners. South Dakota Mines aims to be at the forefront of sustainable technologies, driving forward the transition to a greener and more environmentally conscious future.
With its commitment to innovation and sustainability, the South Dakota School of Mines is garnering attention as a leading institution in the field of manufacturing research, putting the state on the map as a hub for cutting-edge advancements in sustainable materials.
As the research at South Dakota Mines progresses, the results are anticipated to have far-reaching implications, benefitting industries that rely heavily on plastics and positioning the state as a key player in the global effort to combat plastic waste. The pioneering work being done at the cell-free manufacturing lab holds significant promise for a greener, more sustainable future.
South Dakota Mines’ promising partnership with the national Science Foundation sets an inspiring example for other organizations looking to drive change and innovation in manufacturing practices. With continued support and investment, groundbreaking research in biodegradable plastics will propel us towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious world.
