Research and Industry Collaboration

The NIU Bioplastics Lab welcomes collaboration with companies, public agencies, and research partners seeking practical alternatives to conventional plastics. We develop bio-based and biodegradable materials for diverse applications across packaging, food-service products, edible films and coatings, 3D-printing filaments, structural composites, electronic materials, and other emerging uses. A central focus of the lab is transforming agricultural residues and other biomass-derived feedstocks into functional, value-added products.

To help move these materials toward real-world use, we support projects from early-stage formulation through prototype development, testing, validation, and techno-economic analysis to assess technical feasibility and commercialization potential. Whether the need is application-specific material development, product testing, or a pathway from concept to scalable prototype, we welcome partnerships that combine sustainability with strong engineering performance.

To start a conversation, please contact Mahdi Vaezi at mvaezi@niu.edu.