ERJ staff report (DS)
Detroit, Michigan - Ford and The Ohio State University are researching the potential of Russian dandelions and guayule as sustainable resources for rubber.
Ford said it could potentially use the substance as a plastics modifier, to help improve the impact strength of plastics. The material might then be used in places such as cupholders, floor mats and interior trim.
Besides the dandelion, the team also is looking into the use of guayuleas a natural rubber, which is provided by OARDC and can also be grown domestically.
The company made no comment on the fact that these materials are substitutes for natural rubber, which is itself a renewable resource.
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Press release from Ford
