The Need

The global market for natural rubber, totaling 14 million tons annually, is experiencing a shift driven by the European goal of achieving 20% self-supply. This objective aims to reduce dependency on hevea natural rubber, predominantly sourced from Asian countries. While the Kazakh dandelion (Taraxacum kok-saghyz) holds promise for rubber production, existing cultivation techniques fall short of economic viability. There is a critical need for agronomic engineering solutions to optimize the production of high-value secondary metabolites, particularly carbonaceous polymers, from plants like the dandelion.

The Technology

The groundbreaking technology developed addresses this need by introducing a novel method for cultivating latex-producing plants. Through alternating warm and cool temperature cycles during cultivation, particularly in soil-less conditions, the technology maximizes rubber synthesis. The key innovation lies in applying warm temperatures during the daytime and cool temperatures at night, specifically targeting the root part of the plant. This method significantly enhances the production yield of rubber, making it economically viable.

Commercial Applications

• Rubber Production: Optimizes natural rubber yield from latex-producing plants, reducing dependency on traditional sources.
• Agricultural Innovation: Enhances the cultivation of high-value secondary metabolites, opening avenues for diverse applications.
• Sustainable Farming: Facilitates the growth of latex-producing plants under controlled conditions, promoting sustainable and efficient agriculture.

Benefits/Advantages

• Increased Yield: The technology boosts the production yield of rubber, contributing to the self-sufficiency goals of regions like Europe.
• Economic Viability: Enables economically feasible cultivation of latex-producing plants, fostering a competitive market for natural rubber.
• Environmental Impact: Promotes sustainable farming practices by optimizing the synthesis of high-value secondary metabolites in plants.
• Precision Agriculture: The ability to control temperature cycles enhances the precision of cultivation, ensuring consistent and reliable results.
• Reduced Dependency: Lessens reliance on hevea natural rubber from Asian countries, aligning with regional self-supply objectives.