Lesquerella as Source of Hydroxy Fatty Acids for Industrial Products

摘要

Various plant species of the genus Lesquerella have the potential to provide U.S. farmers with a new crop and U.S. industry with a domestic source of hydroxy fatty acids. To assess lesquerella's prospects as a new crop, a USDA-led task force evaluated the current status of lesquerella research and development and gathered information on lesquerella from knowledgeable individuals in the public and private sectors using a Delphi survey. Lesquerella is only 6 years out of the wild. Remarkable agronomic progress has occurred. Plant selection research has increased average yields in experimental plots from the equivalent of about 1,000 pounds per acre to over 1,800 pounds. Current production and crushing equipment can be used to grow and process lesquerella. Because of their special chemical attributes, the oil and its derivatives can be used in a wide range of products, including resins, waxes, nylons, plastics, high-performance lubricants, corrosion inhibitors, cosmetics, and coatings. The meal can be used as cattle feed.