THE PROBLEM: With the growing demand for biodiesel fuels and lubricants, the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) found a new source of oil in the weed pennycress (Thlaspi arvense), from the mustard family. Pennycress seeds contain up to 35% oil high in erucic acid, a key ingredient in personal care and industrial products. To develop pennycress as a commercial cover crop, ARS had to improve pennycress germination and demonstrate its industrial value.

THE SOLUTION: ARS cultivated two new lines of pennycress and developed a pilot method of pressing seed oil. The team also converted oil from the pennycress plant into higher-value products and demonstrated that the nutritional value of the leftover plant material was comparable to soybeans and superior to canola. Researchers also demonstrated potential applications for its proteins and meal.

THE TECH TRANSFER MECHANISM: Through CRADAs, material transfer agreements, Biomass Research and Development Initiative grants, field days, and farmer and industry collaborations, ARS has transferred research in pennycress oil composition and germplasm analysis to universities and private companies.

THE TECH TRANSFER EXCELLENCE: ARS’ technology transfer efforts have stimulated pennycress research programs at several Midwestern universities and the launch of two commercial enterprises. The T2 effort also supported the Environmental Protection Agency’s inclusion of pennycress as an eligible feedstock for the Renewable Fuel Standard Program.

THE IMPACT: Pennycress’s hardiness allows for off-season production during the winter months, providing farmers with an additional cash crop and the ability to harvest three times in a two-year timeframe. Pennycress now serves as a feedstock in the U.S. for advancing biofuels, without competing with land for food production.