Two researchers from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville have developed a process that uses milk waste as the basis for biodegradable 3D printing materials. The WiSys-patented method, titled “Development of Bio-Composite Materials for 3D Printing Using Milk Proteins,” utilizes the proteins casein and whey found in milk to create environmentally friendly polymers. The goal is to replace petroleum-based plastics while providing a new revenue stream for dairy farms.
The idea emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, when supply chain disruptions led to the disposal of large quantities of milk. Mechanical engineering professor John Obielodan and chemistry professor Joseph Wu began experimenting with proteins extracted from perishable milk to develop polymer composites. After several years of research, they succeeded in creating a bio-based material compatible with existing 3D printing technologies.
“This breakthrough highlights the kind of forward-thinking research happening at UW-Platteville,” said Dr. Tammy Evetovich, chancellor of UW-Platteville. “Dr. Obielodan and Dr. Wu represent the very mission of our university and how we support and encourage innovation. Their work not only advances sustainable, biodegradable materials for 3D printing but also offers eco-friendly alternatives to petroleum-based plastics that can help sustain our planet for generations to come.”
“We knew dairy products contain proteins like casein and whey,” observed Obielodan, professor and chair of the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. “We asked ourselves, ‘Why can’t this milk, instead of being wasted, be turned into something valuable?’”
“Many single-use plastics end up in oceans, where they are ingested by marine animals—eventually entering our food chain,” noted Obielodan. “The full impact on human health is still unknown. Additionally, producing synthetic plastics pollutes the environment and releases greenhouse gases. Biomaterials offer a more sustainable alternative, turning natural and waste materials into useful polymers with fewer environmental and health risks.”
“We needed to figure out what kind of protein, and in what form, would yield the best results,” Obielodan explained. “We started by creating our own proteins, then tested some commercially available ones before finding the one that gave the best results. These proteins were used with existing 3D printing materials.”
The researchers received support from the Dairy Innovation Hub, a state-funded initiative promoting research in dairy science. The project was funded with a total of approximately $180,000 over five years.
“We involved students and hired them to help set up the experiment,” said Wu. “They had to break the protein down and try to purify it. We included both chemistry and mechanical engineering students.”
“We have to thank the Dairy Innovation Hub,” exclaimed Wu. “They provided the seed money that allowed us to investigate. We couldn’t have done this without them.”
“As farmers and innovators, we believe in the quality and power of milk,” said Maria Woldt, program manager for the Dairy Innovation Hub. “It’s really inspiring to see researchers like Dr. Wu and Dr. Obielodan finding alternative uses for this safe, high-quality, natural and sustainable product.”
The process could eventually reduce dependence on conventional plastics while increasing the value of milk by-products. The next step is to bring the technology to market readiness in collaboration with industry partners.
“I love invention, and I practice what I teach,” asserted Wu. “In my classes, I tell students to learn the concepts and then connect the dots. That’s exactly what I’m doing here. No one saw it coming—3D printing and dairy protein merging into a revolutionary material. It’s all about making unexpected connections, ones that could not only advance the 3D printing industry but also support Wisconsin’s dairy farmers.”
“Looking ahead, a variety of products could be made using proteins derived from milk,” declared Obielodan. “From 3D printing filaments to other engineered materials, the possibilities are wide-ranging.”
The project demonstrates how principles of the circular economy and additive manufacturing can be combined to create sustainable materials for industrial production.
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