Russ White, University Relations, (517) 432-0923 or whiterus@msu.edu
3/25/2003
EAST LANSING, Mich. - KTM Industries of Lansing and Michigan State University have announced the signing of a licensing agreement for "green" technology developed by MSU researchers.
The licensed technology advances KTM Industries' emerging industrial product line of biodegradable starch foam packaging and insulation materials. It is also applicable in the company's established consumer products, including ecologically friendly arts and crafts construction materials.
The biodegradable materials technology derives from research by Ramani Narayan, a professor in the MSU College of Engineering. The novel industrial materials are designed to provide innovative solutions for global packaging applications, such as high-value cargo protection, electronic components protection, material handling, defense packaging and sound/vibration management.
Loraine J. Hudson, MSU's director of Intellectual Property, said the KTM-MSU license is an example of technology transfer that offers a potential royalty return to the university as well as supporting regional economic development.
"With international manufacturers seeking compliance with the Kyoto Treaty and ISO 14,000 requirements, a new market for environmentally friendly products has unlimited potential," said Tim Colonnese, KTM Industries' president. "Our company's relationship with MSU is a crucial element in the ongoing success of developing and promoting our expanding line of biodegradable products."
In February 2002, the Society of Plastics Engineers Inc. presented the company with its "Excellence in Plastics Impact on the Environment" award at its annual meeting in Detroit.
Founded in 1997 by three MSU professors, the company is located near the Lansing Capitol City Airport. KTM Industries Inc. develops, manufactures and markets new technologies and applications that incorporate proprietary, non-toxic, environmentally safe bioplastics for a diverse range of consumer and industrial markets.