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Life cycle assessment of zein; ethyl lactate; and derivative nanofiltration membranes
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DOI：10.1039/D6GC01980C.png)
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Abstract
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Agricultural biomass from corn can be upcycled into valuable biodegradable materials such as zein; ethyl lactate; and membranes; reducing depleting resource consumption; minimizing waste; and contributing to a circular bioeconomy. Zein; a protein sourced from corn; is an alternative to fossil-based polymers. Proteins are more abundant; biodegradable; nontoxic; complex; and versatile than other biopolymers. In ethyl lactate; an alternative green solvent emerging in various applications; zein can form nanofiltration membranes. Herein; we report the life cycle assessment of zein; ethyl lactate; and membranes derived from these compounds. The assessment compares different feedstock; solvents; purification techniques; and solvent management methods to identify the environmental hotspots; particularly during the extraction stage; as an aid for decision-making. Notably; although environmental impacts are not necessarily outweighed by utilizing agricultural waste; they can be reduced through high-protein-content feedstock and proper solvent management. We also show the impact of systems thinking through the production of membrane materials and close the life cycle loop via biodegradation.
Keywords:
zein
ethyl lactate
nanofiltration membranes
life cycle assessment
circular bioeconomy
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