Are TK Dandelions a future crop for Ohio Farmers?

$26 million awarded to boost domestic rubber supply chain

Ohio State University has been awarded $26 million by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish the TARDISS Engineering Research Center (ERC), aiming to boost natural rubber production in the U.S. and develop a skilled workforce.

The center, officially titled “Transformation of American Rubber through Domestic Innovation for Supply Security,” will receive funding for five years, with a possible extension for another five years.

The TARDISS ERC will pioneer the production of alternative rubber using crops like guayule, rubber dandelions, and mountain gum, aiming to reduce dependency on imported rubber.

This initiative will also foster the creation of new jobs, train a diverse workforce, and improve supply chain security by building a domestic rubber supply.

Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. highlighted the university’s commitment to supporting local communities and businesses through research and industry collaboration.

Led by Ohio State professor Judit Puskas, the TARDISS team includes leading experts and partners from academic institutions, including North Carolina State University, Texas Tech, and industry giants like The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.

The U.S. rubber industry faces challenges from diseases affecting the primary natural rubber source, the Hevea brasiliensis tree, which could disrupt global supplies. TARDISS aims to address these vulnerabilities by establishing a sustainable and innovative domestic production system.

Headquartered at Ohio State’s Wooster campus, TARDISS will leverage cutting-edge research to drive technological advancements in rubber production and workforce development, ultimately positioning the U.S. as a global leader in natural rubber innovation.

The center’s work represents a significant step toward a self-reliant and secure rubber industry in the U.S.

Photo Credit: Pexels – Magda Ehlers