Researchers at the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JSTA) have been successful in producing a valuable polymer from Eucommia ulmoides, a deciduous tree. Polyisoprene is an important substance for the chemical industry as a raw material for rubber products and other highly elastomeric resins. Trans-polyisoprene (TPI) in particular has been mostly manufactured from naphtha and other petroleum-based raw materials and used as cable coverings and sports and medical equipment components. Now, the researchers from JSTA led by Professor Takeshi Bamba have developed a manufacturing facility for the production of high-purity Eucommia elastomer, a high-performance TPI extracted from the seed peels… Login to continue

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