Turning Corn into Acrylics: A Sustainable Future for Everyday Products

October 24, 2024

In this audio interview, Jared White from Brownfield Ag speaks with Chris Nicholas, president and co-founder of Lakril Technologies, about an exciting innovation: turning corn into sustainable acrylics. You'll hear how Lakril is using bio-based sugars, derived from corn, to create environmentally-friendly alternatives to petroleum-based chemicals. Nicholas shares insights into how this technology could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of everyday products like paints, coatings, and even diapers. Tune in to learn more about this cutting-edge development and its potential impact on corn demand.

< Older Post

 Newer Post >
Kevin and John thumbnail

Back to School, Back to Roots: Ag in the Classroom with Kevin Daugherty

By Tara Desmond • August 13, 2026
Growing Good Consumers: Inside Illinois' Ag in the Classroom Program
John Klemm, IFB's Steve Koellerm, ASA's Jim Martin, and Chad Dillenberger

IL Corn Attends Ag Legislative Roundtable

By Lyndi Allen • August 13, 2026
IL Corn farmer leaders joined the 2026 Illinois Ag Legislative Roundtable, hearing from gubernatorial candidates Darren Bailey and Gov. JB Pritzker, as well as U.S. Senate candidate Don Tracy.
IL Corn, Illinois Farm Bureau, and Illinois Ag in the Classroom staff and interns at Marquis Energy

A Close-Up Look at Marquis’ Growing Impact

By Pearl McDade • August 13, 2026
Interns tour Marquis, exploring ethanol, carbon capture, and innovation that supports Illinois farmers and jobs.
Johnna in the RFD Studio

Behind the Mic: Learning the Business of Farm Radio

By Tara Desmond • August 13, 2026
Intern Johnna Fulcher learns from RFD Radio veteran DeLoss Jahnke about farm broadcasting, agriculture, storytelling and life behind the mic.
U.S. Capitol building under a bright blue sky, with cars in front on a sunny day

Farm Bill Delay Extends Uncertainty for Illinois Corn Farmers

By Lyndi Allen • August 6, 2026
The Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry adjourned without advancing a Farm Bill, leaving farmers and the agriculture industry with uncertainty, as the current extension is set to expire on September 30.
Andy Gilson

Meet Andy Gilson: A New Precision Conservation Management Specialist

By Tara Desmond • August 5, 2026
Meet Andy Gilson, A new PCM specialist — a 4th-gen farmer bringing firsthand experience to conservation economics.
Show More