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Are TK Dandelions a future crop for Ohio Farmers?

Are TK Dandelions a future crop for Ohio Farmers?
Sep 30, 2024
By Jean-Paul McDonald
Assistant Editor, North American Content, Farms.com

$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


Trending Video

Demco Dual Aguer Grain Carts — Fire Safety Systems, Right or Left-Handed Unload, and More!

Video: Demco Dual Aguer Grain Carts — Fire Safety Systems, Right or Left-Handed Unload, and More!


Demco's dual auger grain cart is designed for unloading efficiency, operator visibility, and safety in the field.

This dual-auger design features both an unload auger and a floor auger for enhanced grain cleanout and consistent flow, and the 22-inch unload auger is capable of moving up to 600 bushels per minute.

Farmers can also choose between right or left-handed unload options—right-handed unload improves visibility from the tractor cab. A new design allows both vertical and horizontal movement for precise grain placement during unloading.

Another key feature is the built-in fire safety system; a 300-gallon onboard water tank with a hose reel that provides field-ready fire suppression capability.

These dual auger grain carts are available in 1100, 1300, 1500, 1700, and 2200 bushel sizes.