Biobased artificial leather system (RFT 695)

Invention Summary

The demand for sustainable materials in industries, such as fashion and automotive, has driven the search for alternatives to traditional leather. This innovation presents a biobased artificial leather composed of a base layer, a foamed layer, and a fabric layer, derived primarily from cotton. The base and foamed layers are prepared using epoxidized vegetable oils, such as cottonseed oil. The foamed layer is created via thermal curing with a foaming agent, resulting in a flexible, porous structure, ideal for leather applications. A unique aspect of this leather is its ability to replicate the flexibility and durability of commercial artificial leather using renewable materials.

Benefits

Eco-Friendly-Utilizes sustainable, plant-based materials, reducing dependence on petrochemicals.
Flexibility-Mimics the softness and flexibility of natural leather.
Durability-Offers comparable durability to traditional artificial leathers.
Customization-Layered construction allows for easy modification to meet specific application needs.

Applications

Fashion Industry: For sustainable clothing, footwear, and accessories.
Automotive Upholstery: Eco-friendly interiors for vehicles.
Furniture: Use in couches, chairs, and other upholstered items.
Sports Equipment: Production of sports gear, such as gloves or balls, needing leather-like flexibility

Patent

This technology has a U.S. Patent Pending and is available for licensing/partnering opportunities.

Contact

NDSU Research Foundation
info(at)ndsurf(dot)org
(701) 231-8173

NDSURF Tech Key

RFT, 695, RFT695

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