Biodegradable Nylon - 85% Less Greenhouse Gas Emissions Than Regular Nylon

California-based company Rennovia announced that they have produced a 100% bio-based nylon polymer which emits 85% less greenhouse gas emissions as compared with petroleum-based adipic acid used in making nylon polymer 6,6. The new polymer also possess significant cost advantages and environmental benefits over current petroleum-based feedstock.

Every year 6 billion pounds of Nylon 6,6 is produced as the feedstock for carpets, tire cord, ropes, apparel, hoses, blankets, zip ties, etc. Rennovia claimed that its new nylon 6,6 could decrease cost by 20-25% and contributes no negative impact to the environment.

Many questions were raised after the press release by Rennovia like how toxic is current nylon 6,6? Does the bio-based polymer generate less toxic gases when it burns? Nylon 6,6 is used in automobiles, so would it reduce toxic gases from fires to use a bio-based version?

No matter what it is always nice to use one less source of petroleum-based feedstock, plus the new alternative provides cost benefit.

Source: http://cleantechnica.com/2013/10/07/bio-based-nylon-reduce-climate-change-emissions-85-compared-petroleum-based/