KPRC to receive $1.5 million for research

The House of Representatives passed legislation funding the United States Department of Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration, with Pittsburg State University’s Kansas Polymer Research Center securing $1.5 million for polymer research.
“The Kansas Polymer Research Center at Pittsburg State has established itself as a leader in the conversion of cellulosic fibers from wheat straw, corn stalks and grasses into a new family of plastics that would be cheaper, require less energy to manufacture and be more environmentally friendly,” said U.S. Rep. Lynn Jenkins, R-Kan., following the legislation. “I was proud to support the university’s request for continued federal funding for this critical research and am glad the House included this in the agriculture appropriations bill.
“This funding will ensure the scientists at Pittsburg State are able continue this vital research for our nation’s future. As our nation continues to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, we must make improvements in the use of clean technology to reduce pollution levels and increase usage of bio-based products produced here at home.”