Penn State Research Foundation and TerraSafe Materials Inc. are developing sustainable packaging solutions. The partnership will focus on reducing and potentially replacing single-use plastics in various industries, including food, construction, agriculture, and transportation.
TerraSafe is establishing its first research and development facility in Innovation Park at Penn State, where the company will test and commercialize materials developed by Penn State researchers. The agreement is based on technologies invented by a research team led by Jeffrey Catchmark, a professor of agricultural and biological engineering at Penn State.
The licensed patents and technologies focus on new composites made from low-cost, naturally-derived materials such as cellulose and starch. These composites exhibit improved stability and barrier properties, making them suitable for applications like sustainable food packaging, handling products, adhesives, foams, and paper products.
The collaboration between TerraSafe and Penn State supports the company’s mission to build and grow companies in rural areas of the United States. Frank Klemens, managing director of the fund, praised Penn State’s exceptional technology library and world-class professors for their ability to find commercial solutions for business needs.
Scott Bolin, CEO of TerraSafe, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating that it will reduce exposure to microplastics and contribute to a safer and healthier environment. The company is committed to being part of the Penn State ecosystem and looks forward to opening its lab at Innovation Park in the coming weeks.
