Dandelion Roots for Rubber?

The thought of a dandelion usually rings the bell as being a weed in a yard. Not anymore. Researchers at Ford and Ohio State University have found that dandelion roots can serve as a sustainable resource for rubber. Since synthetic rubber is not a sustainable resource Ford is trying to reduce the use of it in their vehicles.

The particular dandelion that can used for a sustainable resource for rubber is the Russian dandelion. This dandelion is called Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS). A milky white substance that seeps from the dandelion root is used for the rubber.

The substance that seeps from dandelion roots can potentially be used for a plastic modifier and used in cup holders, floor mats, and interior trim.

Before the new product is used Ford will test the quality to make sure for suitability and that it meets durability standards.

Not only is Ford looking into the prospects of using dandelion root for rubber they are also looking into using a guayule, a U.S. shrub, for potential rubber. Both dandelion root and guayule can be grown domestically.

Ford has made a "reduce, reuse, and recycle" commitment as part of the organizations commitment to become more Eco-friendly. Ford is actively seeking ways to reduce their environmental footprint.

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(Information in this article is courtesy of media.ford.com)