Our overall goal in this project is the utilization of abundant and readily available organic chemicals derived from corn stover for the preparation of new polymeric materials through the discovery of novel chemical transformations. Polymerization of reactive monomers to produce materials having versatile properties and applications is the backbone of the polymer and plastics industry. The discovery of unique polymerizable monomers and of new methods for polymerization using corn-derived chemicals will lead to novel materials having unique and useful properties.
Through the efforts in this proposed research project, we aim to expand bio-based opportunities by conversion of the highly functional molecules that can be derived directly from abundant cornbased biomass into materials with high potential value. Through new efficient transformations, our team will significantly advance the existing knowledge in the area of selective and highyielding chemical transformations of low-cost and abundant functional molecules into higher-value polymeric materials.