Benzinga | Jun 29, 2021 08:02AM EDT

Danimer Scientific Reports Received US Patent For Renewable, Biodegradable Marking Wax

Biobased alternative to petrochemical-based paraffin wax can be used to make compostable crayons

Patent jointly awarded in partnership with environmentally focused material developer Rob Falken

BAINBRIDGE, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Danimer Scientific (NYSE:DNMR), a leading next generation bioplastics company focused on the development and production of biodegradable materials, announced today that it received a U.S. Patent for a renewable, biodegradable marking wax that serves as an alternative to petrochemical-based paraffin wax. The patent was jointly awarded to Danimer Scientific and its partner in developing the material, Rob Falken, an environmentally focused material developer based in San Diego. The material can be used to make plant-based, compostable crayons that reliably break down in industrial composting facilities and home compost bins, unlike traditional crayons made with non-renewable paraffin wax that can take decades to decompose.

"Our mission is to develop and manufacture 100% renewable and biodegradable alternatives to traditional petrochemical-based materials," said Danimer Scientific Chief Science and Technology Officer Phil Van Trump. "This project is a significant step towards expanding this mission from single-use plastic alternatives to a greater range of industries and applications. By collaborating with Mr. Falken, we combined his knowledge of functional waxes with our expertise in polymer chemistry to create a completely new material that has the potential to bring the crayon industry to the forefront of sustainability. We believe this has potential to help the next generation see how they can reduce the environmental impact of popular consumer products."

Crayons made from the biodegradable wax exhibit the same quality, feel and breaking strength as non-renewable paraffin, which ensures consumers do not have to sacrifice performance when using a compostable crayon. In addition, the material is non-allergenic, non-toxic and odorless, making it a safe and reliable product for children and adults alike. Danimer Scientific plans to engage crayon manufacturers in bringing this new material to the marketplace.

"The largest crayon manufacturers consume millions of pounds of paraffin wax every year to produce billions of crayons, and this new material offers a way to reduce the environmental impact of these beloved products," said Falken. "We've also developed a formulation to use our biodegradable wax for making crayons with seeds in them, allowing consumers to plant the crayons rather than simply throwing them away after use. It's a great way to educate children on how to dispose of broken or discarded crayons in an eco-friendly manner."

For more information on Danimer Scientific, visit www.DanimerScientific.com. For more information on Rob Falken, visit www.RobFalken.com.