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Soy Chemistry Literature

 

 

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soy chemistry cover image with white text on a green background and soybeans underneath

The soy industry plays a crucial role in sustainable development by utilizing soybeans as a renewable feedstock for food, fuel, and material applications. Research and innovations in this field, largely funded by the United Soybean Board, provide a wealth of potential curriculum content. This allows educators to engage students with real-world examples that illustrate the application of green chemistry principles and life cycle assessments in advancing sustainable technologies.

 

These research and innovations serving as potential curriculum content will support the development of case studies that emphasize the applications of green chemistry and sustainability. These case studies will align with the green chemistry and sustainability requirements of professional organizations such as the American Chemical Society and Royal Society of Chemistry to help prepare students for future careers in these fields.

 

This collection showcases various soy research and innovations, and best practices for adapting them into the curriculum. The aim is to raise awareness of soy as a versatile bio-based material while fostering increased interest in soy-based research and innovations and provide potential curriculum materials for case study development.

 

To submit a resource as part of this collection, use the GCTLC's online submission form

3D-Printable Biobased Eutectogels Based on Soybean Oil and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents for Underwater EMG Recording

Summary

This study presents the development of 3D-printable biobased eutectogels that integrate acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) with natural deep eutectic solvents (DES) to create hydrophobic, conductive soft materials suitable for underwater electromyography (EMG) recording. The research explores the tunability of the eutectogels' mechanical, electrochemical, and water-repellent properties by ...

Type
Lesson summaries, Case studies

A Comparative Study of Diesel Oil and Soybean Oil as Oil-Based Drilling Mud

Summary

This study evaluates the performance of high oleic soybean oil (HOSO) as a sustainable alternative to diesel oil in oil-based drilling muds, with implications for both lubricant and biodiesel applications. The research compares the rheological, filtration, and thermal properties of drilling fluids formulated with HOSO versus conventional diesel oil.

Full citation: Agwu, O. E., Okon, A. N., & Udoh ...

Type
Journal articles

A highly reactive soybean oil-based superhydrophobic polyurethane film with longlasting antifouling and abrasion resistance

Summary

This Learning Object explores the development of a soybean oil-based superhydrophobic polyurethane film that demonstrates long-lasting antifouling and abrasion resistance. The study highlights the synthesis of bio-based polyols derived from epoxidized soybean oil and their subsequent integration into polyurethane coatings enhanced with superhydrophobically modified silica nanoparticles and OH–PDMS ...

Type
Journal articles

A new formaldehyde-free wood adhesive from renewable materials

Summary

This study presents the development and evaluation of a formaldehyde-free wood adhesive composed of soy flour (SF) and a novel curing agent (CA) synthesized from epichlorohydrin (ECH) and ammonium hydroxide. The adhesive was tested on various plywood configurations (seven-ply, five-ply yellow poplar, and five-ply aspen) and assessed for water resistance using standardized soak and boil tests. The ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Case studies, Journal articles

A new method of making particleboard with a formaldehyde-free soy-based adhesive

Summary

This study presents a novel method for producing particleboard using a formaldehyde-free adhesive composed of soy flour (SF) and a curing agent (CA). Traditional soy-based adhesives are too viscous for direct application in particleboard manufacturing. To overcome this, the researchers developed a two-step process: first coating wood particles with a dilute soy slurry, followed by drying and ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

A Novel General Chemistry Experiment for Freshmen: Transgenic Soybean Detection Based on Microfluidic Molecular Fluorescence Spectroscopy Analysis

Summary

This educational resource introduces a microfluidic-based molecular fluorescence spectroscopy experiment designed for freshmen enrolled in General Chemistry courses. The experiment focuses on the detection of transgenic soybeans by analyzing nucleic acids using a centrifugal microfluidic platform combined with loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). It serves as an interdisciplinary ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Journal articles

Advancing sustainable chemistry education: Insights from real-world case studies

Summary

This article looks at the integration of innovative teaching methodologies through two case studies: “Plasticized Childhood” (exploring the environmental and health impacts of plastic toys) and “Unpacking Burgers” (a look into the complexities of plant-based meat alternatives). The Classroom Observation method was used to analyze and observe student interactions and learning outcomes while ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

Comparison between Sunflower Oil and Soybean Oil as Gear Lubricant

Summary

This study evaluates the use of sunflower oil and soybean oil as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic gear lubricants in helical gear systems. Conducted using a gear test rig, the research measured kinematic viscosity and viscosity index of both oils over 80 hours of operation. Findings revealed that while both oils possess high viscosity indices and perform well at high temperatures, sunflower ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

Evaluating Sustainability: Soap versus Biodiesel Production from Plant Oils

Summary

This study, conducted by Nicola L. B. Pohl, Jennifer M. Streff, and Steve Brokman at Iowa State University, presents a comparative laboratory experiment designed for undergraduate organic chemistry students. The experiment explores the saponification and transesterification of plant oils (soybean, rapeseed, and olive) to produce soap and biodiesel, respectively.

Key Learning Objectives & ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Journal articles

Exploration of the complementary properties of biobased epoxies derived from rosin diacid and dimer fatty acid for balanced performance

Summary

This learning object explores the synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation of biobased epoxies derived from rosin diacid and dimer fatty acid, focusing on their complementary mechanical, thermal, and curing properties. The study presents a modified two-step synthesis of diglycidyl ester-type epoxies using calcium oxide as a water scavenger to improve yield and epoxy content. The ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

Frictional analysis on engine lubricant dilution by coconut oil and soybean oil derived biodiesel

Summary

This study investigates the tribological (frictional) behavior of engine lubricants diluted with biodiesel derived from coconut oil (CME) and soybean oil (SME). As concerns grow over fossil fuel depletion and greenhouse gas emissions, biodiesel is explored as a renewable, lower-emission alternative. However, its use in compression ignition engines can lead to lubricant dilution, potentially ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

From Soybeans to Tofu: The Underlying Chemistry

Summary

Tofu, a traditional Chinese food, is widely consumed around the world, yet the chemistry behind its production is often overlooked. This study presents a simple demonstration designed for lower-level undergraduate courses in organic chemistry or biochemistry to elucidate the key principles involved in the tofu-making process. The research highlights the role of heat treatment in denaturing soy ...

Type
Journal articles

GrowNextGen Curriculum: Soybeans as a Chemical Feedstock

Summary

GrowNextGen published this curriculum that includes lesson plans on understanding soybeans as a chemical feedstock. The lessons include an activity on soybean processing, two laboratory based experiments (testing and separating biomolecules in soybean) and an assignment for student to investigate soybean products and share out their findings.

Andrea Harpen, Chemistry and Physics Teacher at ...

Type
Activities/Technology (e.g., in-class activities, online games, hands-on activities/manipulatives, outreach, virtual tools, etc.), Small resource sets

Identification of Fatty Acids, Phospholipids, and Their Oxidation Products Using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Summary

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) have found increasing application in the analysis of biological samples. Using these techniques to solve problems in analytical chemistry should be an essential component of the training of undergraduate chemists. We present an experiment that teaches students how to ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Journal articles

Investigation of poly (glycidyl methacrylate-co-styrene) as a curing agent for soy-based wood adhesives

Summary

This study explores the synthesis and application of poly(glycidyl methacrylate-co-styrene) (PGS) emulsions as formaldehyde-free curing agents for soy-based wood adhesives. The research demonstrates that PGS, synthesized via emulsion polymerization, effectively enhances the water resistance of soybean flour (SF)-based adhesives used in plywood manufacturing. Key variables such as PGS/SF weight ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

Modification of epoxidized soybean oil for lubricant formulations with improved oxidative stability and low pour point

Summary

This peer-reviewed study presents a novel chemical modification strategy for epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) to develop biobased lubricants with improved oxidative stability and low-temperature performance. ESO was ring-opened using alcohols in the presence of sulfuric acid and then esterified with acid anhydrides to yield functionalized fluids. These fluids demonstrated improved pour points (as low ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

One-step acrylation of soybean oil (SO) for the preparation of SO-based macromonomers

Summary

This Learning Object explores a Green Chemistry approach to creating renewable, bio-based materials. Based on "One-step acrylation of soybean oil for the preparation of SO-based macromonomers" introduces an efficient, one-step method for acrylating soybean oil using acrylic acid and BF₃·Et₂O as a catalyst. The process avoids multi-step syntheses, enhances atom economy, and produces macromonomers ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

Preparation and Properties of Lubricant Basestocks from Epoxidized Soybean Oil and 2-Ethylhexanol

Summary

This learning object explores the preparation and characterization of lubricant basestocks synthesized from epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) and 2-ethylhexanol (2-EH). The study investigates the reaction pathways—primarily epoxy ring-opening and transesterification—using different catalysts, and evaluates the resulting products in terms of viscosity, pour point, viscosity index, and oxidative ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives Based on Epoxidized Soybean Oil and Dicarboxylic Acids

Summary

This learning object examines the development of environmentally friendly pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) synthesized from epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) and bio-based dicarboxylic acids via an epoxide–acid reaction. The study investigates the influence of crosslinking density, monomer ratios, and curing conditions on adhesive performance, including tack, peel strength, and shear resistance. The ...

Type
Journal articles

Protein N‐Glycans: Incorporating Glycochemistry into the Undergraduate Laboratory Curriculum

Summary

The article "Incorporating Glycochemistry into the Undergraduate Laboratory Curriculum: Isolation and Analysis of Soybean Glycoprotein β-Conglycinin" addresses the underrepresentation of glycoscience in undergraduate biochemistry labs by introducing a multiweek experimental series. Students isolate β-conglycinin from soy flour and analyze it using SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry. They also apply a ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Lecture or course slides/notes (e.g., PPT, Prezi, PDF), Activities/Technology (e.g., in-class activities, online games, hands-on activities/manipulatives, outreach, virtual tools, etc.), Assessments, Journal articles

Reprocessable Networks from Vegetable Oils, Salts, and Food Acids: A Green Polymer Outreach Demonstration

Summary

This educational resource presents a hands-on outreach demonstration to explore the concepts of green polymer chemistry and sustainability. The lesson focuses on reprocessable polymer networks—a key innovation in sustainable material development—using common household ingredients such as vegetable oils, citric acid, and baking soda. Students learn about the environmental challenges posed by ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Lecture or course slides/notes (e.g., PPT, Prezi, PDF), Journal articles

Rheological Properties of Soybean Oil with Nano Additives: A Comprehensive Analysis

Summary

This Learning Object introduces students to the rheological behavior of soybean oil with nano-additives (graphite, graphene, and nanocarbon) as a pathway to developing biodegradable lubricants. Using experimental data and mathematical modeling (power law and temperature-dependent viscosity equations), the study examines how nano-additives influence viscosity, thixotropy, and flow properties. This ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Case studies, Journal articles

Rudolph Diesel Meets the Soybean: “Greasing” the Wheels of Chemical Education

Summary

This article explores the role of biodiesel as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based fuels, highlighting its historical context, chemical principles, and practical applications. It discusses the contributions of Rudolph Diesel, who originally designed his engine to run on vegetable oil, and examines the modern shift toward biodiesel as an environmentally friendly solution to energy ...

Type
Journal articles

Scalable manufacturing and reprocessing of vitrimerized flexible polyurethane foam (PUF) based on commercial soy polyols

Summary

This Learning Object introduces students to Green Chemistry principles through a case study on recyclable flexible polyurethane foams (PUFs) using renewable soy-based polyols. Based on “Scalable manufacturing and reprocessing of vitrimerized flexible polyurethane foam (PUF) based on commercial soy polyols” the study demonstrates how commercial soy polyols can partially replace petrochemical ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Case studies, Journal articles

Soy-Based Chemicals and Materials: Growing the Value Chain

Summary

This review chapter "Soy-Based Chemicals and Materials: Growing the value chain" documents the use of soy as a biomaterial and green alternative to traditional feedstocks. Within this article, current industrial uses of soybeans are discussed including solvents, oleochemicals and surfactants, paints, coatings, inks, plastics, plasticizers and others are highlighted. Then, four of the Presidential ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

Soybean carbohydrate as fermentation feedstock for production of biofuels and value-added chemicals

Summary

Overview: This comprehensive review explores how carbohydrate-rich byproducts from soybean processing—such as soybean hulls, meal, molasses, and okara—can be repurposed as fermentation feedstocks to produce biofuels, enzymes, and specialty chemicals. The paper emphasizes the potential of these underutilized materials in building a sustainable, soy-based biorefinery platform.

Citation: Brentin, R ...

Type
Journal articles

Soybean Oil: Powering a High School Investigation of Biodiesel

Summary

This lab series challenges students to make and analyze biodiesel using soybean oil as a renewable fuel. It aligns with the NGSS Energy standards for K-12 classrooms. The lesson encourages students to tackle global issues with evidence and scientific reasoning. This lab enhances discussions on energy by exploring biodiesel as an alternative to petroleum-based diesel.

Full citation: Rosa, P. D. L ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Journal articles

Styrene-Free Soybean Oil Thermoset Composites Reinforced by Hybrid Fibers from Recycled and Natural Resources

Summary

This study introduces a sustainable, styrene-free thermoset composite derived from acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) and reinforced with hybrid fibers sourced from recycled PET, bamboo, polyester, and ethylene-propylene (ES) fibers. To replace toxic and volatile styrene, the researchers synthesized glyceryl trimethacrylate (GTMA) from biodiesel-derived glycerol as a bio-based reactive ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles

Teaching Green Chemistry with Epoxidized Soybean Oil

Summary

The integration of green chemistry principles in academics reflects growing student interest in renewable resources and environmental sustainability, driven by increasing awareness of global climate change. Educators must continually expand their green chemistry pedagogy to align with current industry and research trends. In this article, the synthesis of epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) was explored ...

Type
Laboratory experiment, Journal articles

Thermo-rheological and tribological properties of low- and high-oleic vegetable oils as sustainable bio-based lubricants†

Summary

This learning object explores the thermo-rheological and tribological behavior of various vegetable oils—specifically low- and high-oleic soybean oil, high-oleic sunflower, safflower, and canola oils—as sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based lubricants in metal machining. The study evaluates key properties such as viscosity index, flow behavior index, flow activation energy, specific heat ...

Type
Case studies, Journal articles