From Vision to Victory: SABER’s History and Future in Sustainable Bioplastics

At SABER Chemical, Inc., we’re on a mission to make bioplastics BETTER—tougher, fully compostable, and environmentally responsible. Our journey began with a vision to eliminate microplastic pollution, and today, we’re leading the charge in sustainable bioplastics with our compostable core-shell particles (CCSPs). As we look to the future, we’re excited to share our story and the bold timeline ahead, inviting partners and investors to join us in reshaping industries from golf to healthcare.

Our Roots: A Breakthrough in Biobased Innovation

SABER Chemical was born in the vibrant research ecosystem of Iowa State University’s Research Park in Ames, Iowa. Founded by Dr. Baker W. Kuehl and a team of innovators, including Lauren Brianna Burton and Dr. Eric W. Cochran, SABER emerged from NSF-funded research into biobased polymers (Biobased Core-Shell Polymers, Kuehl et al.). The challenge was clear: traditional bioplastics like polylactic acid (PLA) relied on non-biodegradable rubber fillers, leaving microplastic residues that polluted ecosystems. Our team saw an opportunity to create a fully compostable alternative using glycerol, a renewable byproduct of biodiesel production.

In 2018, SABER’s founders began developing glycerol-based core-shell particles (CCSPs) through a water-based process called seeded semi-batch emulsion polymerization. This method, detailed in our research, produces tiny particles (210 nm) that blend with bioplastics like PLA, PHA, and PCL, boosting toughness to over 200 J/m Izod impact strength—ten times stronger than plain PLA—while ensuring ASTM D6400 compostability. By 2020, we had synthesized CCSPs that could replace petroleum-based rubbers, setting the stage for a new era of sustainable plastics.

Milestones: From Lab to Real-World Impact

• 2021: First Prototype Success: SABER’s CCSPs were successfully blended with PLA, achieving a tenfold increase in impact strength and full compostability. Our research, published in Biobased Core-Shell Polymers, demonstrated the scalability of our water-based process, which minimizes volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and supports industrial production.

• 2022: Strategic Partnerships: We forged partnerships with industry leaders like NatureWorks and EvolveGolf, as well as the NSF Center for Bioplastics and Biocomposites (CB²). These collaborations validated CCSPs in real-world applications, from packaging to biodegradable golf tees.

• 2023: Iowa State University Collaboration: Leveraging ISU’s research infrastructure, we refined our CCSPs for applications like medical devices and agricultural films. Our glycerol-based approach, using solketal acrylate, ensured biodegradability by keeping rubber molecules short enough (around 1200 Da) for bacteria to digest.

• 2024: PGA Tour Pilot Launch: In partnership with EvolveGolf, SABER launched a pilot project to supply compostable golf tees for the PGA Tour. These tees, made from CCSP-enhanced PLA, decompose in about 10 weeks, preventing microplastic pollution”On golf courses.

Our Future Timeline: A Sustainable Tomorrow

SABER’s vision is to lead the global bioplastics market, projected to reach $12 billion by 2030 (previous conversation, April 07, 2025). Here’s our roadmap:

• 2025: Expand Pilot Programs: Building on the PGA Tour success, we’ll launch pilots for medical devices (e.g., biodegradable catheters) and compostable packaging with partners like NatureWorks. These projects will showcase CCSPs’ versatility across high-value sectors.

• 2026: Scale Production: Using our scalable emulsion polymerization process, we’ll establish a commercial production facility in Iowa, leveraging glycerol’s abundance to reduce costs and carbon emissions. This will support partnerships with converters and brand owners.

• 2027: Global Market Entry: We aim to supply CCSP-enhanced bioplastics to Europe and Asia, capitalizing on microplastic bans (Investor Pitch). Our focus will include agricultural films and consumer goods, expanding our partner network.

• 2030: Industry Leadership: By 2030, SABER plans to be a top supplier of compostable bioplastics, reducing millions of tons of plastic waste annually. We’ll invest in R&D to develop new CCSP formulations for emerging applications, ensuring bioplastics meet diverse industry needs.

Why Partner with SABER?

For investors and partners, SABER offers a unique opportunity:

• Proven Innovation: Our NSF-backed research and pilot projects demonstrate CCSPs’ performance and scalability.
• Market Potential: The bioplastics market’s 15% annual growth offers high returns, especially in medical and packaging sectors.
• Sustainability Impact: By eliminating microplastic pollution, SABER aligns with global ESG goals, attracting eco-conscious stakeholders.
• Collaborative Ecosystem: Our ties to ISU, CB², and industry leaders position us for rapid growth and innovation.

At SABER, we’re not just making bioplastics—we’re redefining what’s possible. Join us to build a future where sustainability and performance go hand in hand.