Wisconsin Patent of the Month – March 2025
A new patent from WiSys Technology Foundation introduces a biodegradable 3D printing filament made from milk proteins, offering a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. This breakthrough could transform additive manufacturing by reducing environmental impact and utilizing dairy industry byproducts.
Eco-Friendly Filament from Dairy Waste
The invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 12,247,325, titled “Development of bio-composite materials for 3D printing using milk proteins,” outlines a composite material combining polylactic acid (PLA) with over 10% milk protein, such as casein or whey. These proteins are purified from cheese-making byproducts, creating a filament suitable for fused filament fabrication (FFF) and other extrusion-based processes. The resulting material is biodegradable, renewable, and capable of achieving tensile strengths above 20 MPa.
Closing the Loop on Dairy Waste
By repurposing dairy waste into high-performance 3D printing materials, this innovation addresses both plastic pollution and agricultural byproduct disposal. The filament’s composition—entirely from renewable sources—aligns with circular economy principles, offering a sustainable option for industries ranging from prototyping to consumer goods.
Real-World Applications and Future Impact
This bio-composite filament is poised to benefit sectors seeking eco-friendly materials without compromising quality. Its compatibility with existing 3D printing technologies ensures seamless integration into current manufacturing workflows. As sustainability becomes a priority, such innovations are crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing environmental footprints.
Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.
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The Research & Experimentation Tax Credit (or R&D Tax Credit), is a general business tax credit under Internal Revenue Code section 41 for companies that incur research and development (R&D) costs in the United States. The credits are a tax incentive for performing qualified research in the United States, resulting in a credit to a tax return. For the first three years of R&D claims, 6% of the total qualified research expenses (QRE) form the gross credit. In the 4th year of claims and beyond, a base amount is calculated, and an adjusted expense line is multiplied times 14%. Click here to learn more.
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