Sustainable Polymers Tech Hub Update: BioVerde’s progress in advancing eco-friendly biomanufacturing

BioVerde Tech, LLC, a project lead within the Sustainable Polymers Tech Hub, is bringing its breakthrough technology to Akron to help shape a sustainable future for Ohio manufacturing. Building on over seven years of research and nearly $250 million in investment from its predecessor intrexon (now Precigen: PGEN). BioVerde's technology uses methane to create sustainable materials and valuable products for the chemical and animal feed industries.

Initial operations in Ohio focus on scaling methanotroph bioreactor systems and downstream processing of bio-butadiene and co-product bio-methyl-ethyl-ketone, key building blocks for rubber, plastics, and coatings. Most notably, BioVerde recently set up lab space at the University of Akron and hired new staff to support its progress. Engineering, active microbial growth, and strain optimization are underway, laying the foundation for full commercialization and platform expansion to other sustainable monomers.

Marshall Moore Hits the Ground Running on the Polymer Pilot Facility

In April, the Polymer Industry Cluster welcomed Marshall Moore to lead the Polymer Pilot and Scale-Up Task Team within the PIC. Marshall brings four decades of experience in innovation and operations leadership in polymers, specialty chemicals, and materials manufacturing, and extensive experience in strategy development and government affairs.

Since joining the team, Marshall has facilitated a step-up in action to build a shared Polymer Pilot Production Facility for the PIC. Recent accomplishments include selecting a site on The University of Akron’s campus, confirming target capabilities with the project team, and commissioning a site study, the first step in the process to design, engineer and build the facility. He has also taken point to work with five EDA Sustainable Polymer Tech Hub projects.

Marshall holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Marietta College and is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt. 

Upcoming Events Across the Industry

Polymer Palooza Draws 500+ for a Day of Hands-on STEM and Fun

More than 500 youth, families, and community members gathered for a free, hands-on day filled with STEM learning and polymer innovation at the Akron Children’s Museum and Lock 3 Park on June 7. Attendees explored hands-on science experiments, watched live demonstrations, and engaged with local polymer companies and STEM organizations, leaving inspired by real-world applications and career pathways in the field.

The annual event, supported by the City of Akron, Greater Akron Chamber and Polymer Industry Cluster, exemplified how collaborative community engagement can spark curiosity, strengthen connections, and build a pipeline for Akron’s future innovators.

Summit Glove, a family-owned, ISO‑certified glove manufacturer based in Minerva, Ohio, specializes in high‑quality hand protection solutions for key markets like industrial manufacturing, food processing, healthcare, agriculture, and janitorial services. Their NitriTech® and NitriFit® lines provide durable, chemical-resistant performance, while products like the 610PF (exam‑grade nitrile) and 506 Series (cut-resistant, 16‑mil nitrile) showcase their deep polymer expertise.

Full Circle Technologies, an industrial waste and recycling facility based in Barberton, Ohio, specializes in reclaiming plastic, rubber, and hydraulic oil, providing recycled materials for new product creation. A project leader within the Sustainable Polymers Tech Hub, they’re spearheading efforts to address tire waste by commercializing end-of-life tires to create a new material that will be repurposed into an eco-friendly asphalt alternative called Ecorphalt.

Low-Cost Opportunity to Upskill Your Employees

Did you know you can be reimbursed for up to $180,000 per year in employee training through the State of Ohio? TechCred is an application-based program that provides employers the opportunity to upskill their employees by earning industry-recognized credentials. 

The next Tech Cred application period will open July 1-31, 2025. Tune into a free webinar on Monday, July 7 at 10:00 AM to learn more about how to apply, the eligibility requirements, and the reimbursement process. You can also access step-by-step instructions here.

Upcoming Polymer Training at UA

The University of Akron’s Akron Polymer Training Services (APTS) delivers specialized workforce training tailored to the evolving needs of the polymer industry through hands-on, on-site training and flexible online courses. Explore upcoming training opportunities to enhance your team’s expertise and drive innovation:

• Essentials of Rubber Science & Technology | August 6-27, 2025

For course details and registration, visit Akron Polymer Training Services.

Earn Your CEUs with Rubber Division, ACS Training

Rubber Division, ACS offers industry-leading training through free webinars for members and complimentary courses for undergraduate student members, many of which offer CEUs through the University of Akron.

The ACS Training Pass provides unlimited access to courses for individuals or companies looking to invest in their workforce, making it easier than ever to upskill employees and stay ahead of industry trends.

Upcoming Training Opportunities:

• Webinar: Maintaining High Performance in Challenging Testing Laboratories | June 25
• Webinar: How to Extend Lifetime of Elastomers & Rubber Products | June 26
• Course: Static, Dynamic & Fatigue Characterization Testing | July 17
• Webinar: The Fatigue Limit of Rubber | July 24
• Course: Building the Rubber Compound - The Essentials | July 30
• Course: Intermediate Rubber Compounding | July 31

For course details and registration, visit Rubber Division, ACS Education and Training.

Recycling company PolyKinetix opening first production site in Massillon

Formed in 2023, the local recycling company takes discarded rubber, plastics and Styrofoam to make new materials. Its new facility will employ 12 individuals and be up and running in mid- to late June.

Read more from The Repository

Tire Society Conference speakers set for 44th annual event

Dr. Surendra Chawla, formerly with the Polymer Industry Cluster and a former Goodyear senior director, will be the keynote speaker at the annual conference taking place at the University of Akron.

Read more from Rubber News

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