Bio-based Materials Research Articles

Mycelium-wood composites as a circular material for building insulation

In Europe, buildings account for 40% of the energy consumption and produce 36% of CO2 emissions. Renovation could be a great tool to decarbonize the building stock since it allows for a decrease in the operational energy required for buildings and is less material-consuming than new construction. Further benefits are brought by the usage of bio-based insulation materials that can drastically reduce embodied emissions and transform structures into factual carbon sinks. This study focuses on a particular kind of biogenic material, mycelium-wood composites, consisting of organic matter bound by the root structure of fungal organisms. This innovative insulation material was compared with traditional ones for the renovation of the building stock, with a focus on vertical components like walls in the Helsinki metropolitan area. To characterize mycelium-wood composites, density and carbon content information were gathered from the samples realized in the Politecnico di Milano MaBa.SAPERLab, while the production processes were included in a SimaPro model to obtain the GWP value. Different scenarios were then defined by two variables: the renovation rate of the building stock and the market penetration of mycelium-wood composites. For each scenario, the overall GWP and CO2 stored values were calculated. Results show the great potential of the innovative material that grants carbon storage in the building stock that could even surpass the amount stored in the 32,500 ha of forest in the area. However, this possibility is heavily influenced by factors independent of the type of insulation used that should be further investigated.

A sustainable and economical solution for CO2 capture with biobased carbon materials derived from palm kernel shells.

This study investigates the synthesize of activated carbon for carbon dioxide adsorption using palm kernel shell (PKS), a by-product of oil palm industry. The adsorbent synthesis involved a simple two-step carbonization method. Firstly, PKS was activated with potassium oxide (KOH), followed by functionalization with magnesium oxide (MgO). Surface analysis revealed that KOH activated PKS has resulted in a high specific surface area of 1086 m2/g compared to untreated PKS (435 m2/g). However, impregnation of MgO resulted in the reduction of surface area due to blockage of pores by MgO. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) demonstrated that PKS-based adsorbents exhibited minimal weight loss of less than 30% up to 500 °C, indicating their suitability for high-temperature applications. CO2 adsorption experiments revealed that PKS-AC-MgO has achieved a higher adsorption capacity of 155.35 mg/g compared to PKS-AC (149.63 mg/g) at 25 °C and 5 bars. The adsorption behaviour of PKS-AC-MgO was well fitted by both the Sips and Langmuir isotherms, suggesting a combination of both heterogeneous and homogeneous adsorption and indicating a chemical reaction between MgO and CO2. Thermodynamic analysis indicated a spontaneous and thermodynamically favourable process for CO2 capture by PKS-AC-MgO, with negative change in enthalpy (- 0.21 kJ/mol), positive change in entropy (2.44 kJ/mol), and negative change in Gibbs free energy (- 729.61 J/mol, - 790.79 J/mol, and - 851.98 J/mol) across tested temperature. Economic assessment revealed that the cost of PKS-AC-MgO is 21% lower than the current market price of commercial activated carbon, indicating its potential for industrial application. Environmental assessment shows a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (381.9 tCO2) through the utilization of PKS-AC-MgO, underscoring its environmental benefits. In summary, the use of activated carbon produced from PKS and functionalised with MgO shows great potential for absorbing CO2. This aligns with the ideas of a circular economy and sustainable development.

Limitations of recent cellulose studies: How overzealous dispersion technique, fluorescence labeling and interpretation limit the findings of recent safety assessments for cellulose materials

Microfibrillated, nanofibrillated, and nanocrystalline cellulose materials are next-generation biobased cellulose materials with applications in the food industry as food contact materials and functional ingredients. Manufacturers have adopted a proactive approach to demonstrate the safety of these cellulose materials as they contribute toward a more sustainable economy. Animal studies and alternative testing approaches are needed to fill data gaps in the literature for the physicochemical and toxicological characterization of cellulose materials. Recently, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) funded a project that used New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) to assess the hazards of nanofibers, including methods to evaluate simulated gastrointestinal digestion, cellular uptake, local effects via simulated oral exposure, and gut-on-a-chip toxicity models. Upon review, we identified methodological and analytical limitations in these studies, which may affect the study conclusions that oral exposure to cellulose materials is associated with adverse effects. The aim of this Short Communication is to discuss the limitations of the reported findings in the NAM study and provide a balanced perspective of the study and of the safety of cellulose materials. This Short Communication highlights a major concern that the NAM study was published in the public domain without any peer review from cellulose experts. We identify and discuss several major limitations, including an unrealistic dispersion method, lack of controls in fluorescent labeling, lack of proper control groups in the experimental design, incomplete reporting of statistical analyses, bias toward reporting adverse effects, and inconsistent explanations of discordant results within the greater scientific literature.

Co-designing sustainable biochar business models with sub-Saharan African communities for inclusive socio-economic transformation

Smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) encounter multiple livelihood challenges. Embracing circular bioeconomy principles, particularly considering agricultural and food processing residues, could enable inclusive, locally led, sustainable development pathways within rural communities. Biochar products are one such example of a bio-based material that can be generated using circular principles and deployed for sustainable community development, including among smallholder farmers. This research leverages empirical evidence from four SSA regions to explore the potential of inclusive and sustainable biochar business models, namely: (i) Northern Region, Ghana, (ii) Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, (iii) Casamance, Senegal, and (iv) Western Region, Uganda. Co-creation workshops using the Triple-Layered Business Model Canvas framework were carried out in each region with local stakeholders to evaluate the social, ecological, and economic implications of four locally relevant biochar applications: water filtration, biogas purification, soil amendment, and cooking fuel briquettes. Data was analysed at an aggregate level for all regions and applications. The study describes this consolidated biochar business model and examines the implications for SSA communities. The resulting sustainable bio-based business model can guide value chain actors and policymakers in SSA communities towards rural sustainable development with a better understanding of the needs, opportunities, challenges, and impacts of biochar-based value chain development.

Exploiting Turmeric’s Coloring Capability to Develop a Functional Pigment for Wood Paints: Sustainable Coloring Process of Polyamide 11 Powders and Their Strengthening Performance

Currently, the wood coatings industry is focusing on creating unique, vibrant finishes using new functional pigments. Simultaneously, there is a growing adoption of eco-friendly bio-based materials, reflecting trends in other sectors and supporting the circular economy. Thus, the aim of this study is to unveil a straightforward, cost-effective, and notably sustainable process for exploiting the coloring potential of turmeric powder and coloring polyamide 11-based fillers, employed as multifunctional pigments for wood coatings. Through the incorporation of this additive into a wood paint, the study demonstrates its dual effect of enhancing the aesthetics of the final composite layer while leveraging the beneficial protective properties inherent to polyamide 11. The impact of these additives on sample aesthetics is assessed through optical observations, as well as measurements of color, gloss, and surface roughness. The strengthening contribution of the functional pigment is evaluated using the Taber abrasion resistance test, static friction coefficient measurements, and Buchholz surface hardness test. Finally, the aesthetic consistency of the bio-based filler and the coloring efficiency of the sustainable process are tested by subjecting the samples to aggressive conditions, including the UV-B chamber exposure test, cold liquids resistance tests, and water uptake test. Ultimately, the study illustrates how this functional bio-based pigment not only provides sufficient protection but also meets current eco-requirements, thereby contributing to the sustainability of the wood coatings industry.

Modeling of glubam roof truss, parameter identification and updating based on parallel genetic algorithm

This research introduces an innovative approach to the design and simulation of bio-based laminated structures, specifically focusing on glue-laminated bamboo (glubam) used in roof trusses. Our study fills a critical gap by investigating the mechanical behaviors of bolted connections in bamboo-based structures, which have not been comprehensively studied before. We employ a dual-phase methodology: initially, cyclic tests on bolted steel to glubam joints assess their hysteretic behavior, followed by tests on glubam planar roof trusses to evaluate structural responses under practical conditions. Our novel contribution is the development of a simplified mechanical-based hysteretic model, incorporating connector and spring elements in series or parallel within the ABAQUS software. This model significantly improves on existing models by allowing for initial calibration through a parallel genetic algorithm (PGA), enhancing both accuracy and efficiency. Subsequent incorporation of this model into the simulation of truss joints enabled the creation of an advanced hybrid roof truss model within ABAQUS. The final stage of our research demonstrates the application of a PGA-based model-updating framework, which substantially increases the model’s predictive accuracy. This work not only advances the understanding of structural behavior in bio-based construction materials but also introduces a robust framework for model updating that can be applied to other engineering simulations, contributing to more sustainable and resource-efficient construction practices.

Thermal regulation enhancement in multi-story office buildings: Integrating phase change materials into inter-floor void formers

Addressing the thermal loss from building envelopes is a crucial challenge and requires the exploration of various mitigation strategies. This study employs comprehensive 3D computational fluid dynamics simulations to investigate the incorporation of various bio-based Phase Change Materials (PCMs) including CrodaTherm (CT) 19, CT21, and CT24W, within inter-floor void formers between the roof-floor boundary in multi-story office buildings to optimize energy management during inactive periods in one of the adjacent units. Aside from the PCM type, the void former shape, its placement, and the combinations of PCMs and insulating layers are examined through heat flux and solid fraction plots as well as liquid fraction contours. Results highlight the exceptional performance of CT24W-integrated void formers, achieving a remarkable 36.74 % reduction in the 48-h average heat flux in comparison with the case without void formers, and offering lower heat flux values than the scenario with insulating layers for 89.38 h (endurance time). Based on the findings, with identical PCM volumes, the semi-ellipsoid PCM-integrated void former provides 11.07 % lower heat flux and 27.56 % longer endurance time compared to the one with a spherical shape. The results underscore PCM integration as a superior strategy over standalone insulation for managing thermal loss between apartment floors.

Thermal and rheological properties and processability of thermoplastic lignocellulose

AbstractFossil‐free biobased materials like thermoplastic lignocellulose are gaining attention because of climate issues. However, there is a challenge to make these as thermoplastic as commonly used thermoplastics. Arboform® is one of today's commercially available thermoplastic lignocellulose materials. In this work, the processability of this material was studied in detail and the effects of plasticizers on its processability, rheological, and mechanical properties were determined. Thermal/calorimetry analysis indicated that the processing temperature window was shifted to lower temperature with the use of tributyl citrate (TBC) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG 400) plasticizers, thus enabling extrusion at lower temperature. TBC and PEG 400 decreased both the glass transition temperature and melting point of the polylactide component. Surprisingly, they also affected the lignin component, as observed by the decreasing lignin decomposition temperature. It is observed that TBC and PEG400 lowered the stiffness of the compression molded material in the temperature range investigated (−30–180°C), and tensile tests in the presence of TBC revealed a decrease in ductility. Notable is that, in contrast to most thermoplastics, the Arboform® melt increases in viscosity and elastic moduli when the processing temperature was increased (from 180 to 200°C) or when processing time was increased.

Assessment of the Biodegradability and Compostability of Finished Leathers: Analysis Using Spectroscopy and Thermal Methods.

In this study, the biodegradation properties of leather treated with various finishing chemicals were evaluated in order to enhance the sustainability of leather processing. We applied advanced analytical techniques, including FT-IR, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and solid-state NMR spectroscopy. Leather samples treated with different polymers, resins, bio-based materials, and traditional finishing agents were subjected to a composting process under controlled conditions to measure their biodegradability. The findings revealed that bio-based polyurethane finishes and acrylic wax exhibited biodegradability, while traditional chemical finishes like isocyanate and nitrocellulose lacquer showed moderate biodegradation levels. The results indicated significant differences in the biodegradation rates and the impact on plant germination and growth. Some materials, such as black pigment, nitrocellulose lacquer and wax, were beneficial for plant growth, while others, such as polyurethane materials, had adverse effects. These results support the use of eco-friendly finishes to reduce the environmental footprint of leather production. Overall, this study underscores the importance of selecting sustainable finishing chemicals to promote eco-friendly leather-manufacturing practices.

Integrating Cellulose Microfibrils and Ellagitannins from Rambutan Peel with Gelatin for Production of Synergistic Biobased Hydrogels.

The pursuit of renewable and eco-friendly raw materials for biobased materials is a growing field. This study utilized ellagitannin and cellulose microfibrils derived from rambutan peel waste alongside gelatin to develop eco-conscious hydrogels. The cellulose/gelatin hydrogels were formulated in two weight ratios (0.5:1 to 1:1), and the influence of gelatin on the chemical composition and rheology was studied. Composite hydrogels, functionalized with an ellagitannin-rich extract, exhibited a remarkable enhancement of up to 14-fold in compressive strength. The hydrogels also demonstrated antimicrobial properties, reducing the Staphylococcus aureus colony count within 24 h. The hydrogel, derived from rambutan peel waste, is biocompatible and could potentially be explored for biomedical applications such as drug delivery systems, and wound dressings. This suggests that it might offer significant value for sustainable materials science, although specific applications have yet to be tested.

Bio-based connections and hybrid planar truss: A parallel genetic algorithm approach for model updating

Bolted steel to laminated bio-based material connections experience significant performance challenges due to the nonlinear response and high stress concentrations at their joints. This paper introduces an innovative 3D plasticity-fracture continuum Finite Element (FE) model that significantly advances the simulation of such truss joints by integrating Hill's yielding criteria with an element removal methodology for fracture simulation. This novel approach captures both plastic and fracture behaviors simultaneously, a capability not sufficiently addressed in existing models. We detail the theoretical framework for these models, including the derivation of constitutive equations and the algorithms necessary for their implementation in ABAQUS. Additionally, it is provided a low-fidelity modeling of truss joints, offering a comprehensive analysis of connector elements, joint models, and parametric modeling via Python scripting. The model's efficacy is demonstrated through identification of connection and of hybrid planar trusses under cyclic loading, which validates the practical applicability of the method. To optimize computational efficiency, we developed a Parallel Genetic Algorithm (PGA) that integrates seamlessly with ABAQUS and Python to facilitate parameter calibration. This integration not only enhances the model's accuracy but also reduces computational load, making it feasible for complex engineering applications. Our findings illustrate a significant improvement in modeling accuracy and efficiency, establishing a robust methodology for analyzing truss joints in bio-based construction materials.

Metabolic engineering combined with site-directed saturated mutations of α-keto acid decarboxylase for efficient production of 6-aminocaproic acid and 1,6-hexamethylenediamine.

6-Aminocaproic acid (6ACA) and 1,6-hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) are key precursors for nylon synthesis, and both are produced using petroleum-based chemical processes. However, the utilization of bio-based raw materials for biological production of monomers is crucial for nylon industry. In this study, we demonstrated that metabolic engineering of Escherichia coli and selected mutations of α-keto acid decarboxylase successfully synthesized 6ACA and HMDA. An artificial iterative cycle from l-lysine to chain-extended α-ketoacids was introduced into Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3). Then, the extended α-ketoacids were decarboxylated and oxidized for 6ACA production. Overexpression of catalase (KatE) combined with the site-directed mutations of α-isopropylmalate synthase (LeuA) contributed synergistic enhancement effect on synthesis of 6ACA, resulting in a 1.3-fold increase in 6ACA titer. Selected mutations in α-keto acid decarboxylase (KivD) improved its specificity and 170.00 ± 5.57 mg/L of 6ACA with a yield of 0.13 mol/mol (6ACA/l-lysine hydrochloride) was achieved by shake flask cultivation of the engineered strain with the KivD# (F381Y/V461I). Meanwhile, the engineered E. coli could accumulate 84.67 ± 4.04 mg/L of HMDA with a yield of 0.08 mol/mol (HMDA/l-lysine hydrochloride) by replacing aldehyde dehydrogenase with bi-aminotransferases. This achievement marks a significant advancement in the biological synthesis of 6-carbon compounds, since the biosynthetic pathways of HMDA are rarely identified.

Alginate/hyaluronic acid/gelatin ternary blended films as pH-sensitive drug carriers: In vitro ampicillin release and kinetic studies

Researchers continuously focused on the fabrication of innovative drug delivery systems to prevent microbial infections while minimizing systemic side effects. Among these, pH-sensitive antibiotic release systems based on bio-based materials have gained great attention due to their ability to precisely modulate drug kinetics and enhance therapeutic efficacy. Herein, pH-sensitive alginate/hyaluronic acid/gelatin ternary blended films were fabricated for the controlled release of ampicillin. Swelling capacity, hydrolytic degradation profile, pH reversibility and in vitro ampicillin release behavior of produced films were investigated in both simulated gastric (pH 1.2) and intestinal (pH 7.4) environments. The cumulative release amount of ampicillin at pH 1.2 (61.0 ± 1.07 mg drug/g polymer) was greater than that of at pH 7.4 (43.0 ± 1.05 mg drug/g polymer) proved that release behavior of ampicillin for produced films is pH-dependent. Based on the fitted release data, best fit was found as the first-order kinetic model with the highest R2 values of 0.966 and 0.962 for both pH conditions. According to Korsmeyer-Peppas model, drug release mechanism is also controlled by case II-transport. Furthermore, produced films demonstrated excellent cytocompatibility. All results revealed that obtained films could be a promising drug carrier to traditional targeting systems for site-specific, pH-sensitive ampicillin delivery in both gastric and intestine.

Natural fibre pultruded profiles: Illustration of optimisation processes to develop high-performance biocomposites for architectural and structural applications

The selection of materials in the construction industry plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainability goals. Traditional materials derived from natural resources face inherent constraints linked to geographic limitation, growth time, and geometric inconsistency and therefore recent attention has shifted towards developing novel bio-based materials. Composites, offering varying properties and geometries, are becoming increasingly popular for customising materials for specific applications. Pultrusion, a technology for manufacturing linear fibre-reinforced composites, is a well-established and reliable method. This study delves into optimising pultrusion technology, which traditionally relies on synthetic fibres, by exploring the potential of natural alternatives, specifically hemp bast fibres. Additionally, it presents a customised formulation based on a plant-based resin and additives. This formulation is tailored for pultrusion to produce high-performance biocomposites for use as load-bearing components in structural applications, with an initial focus on bending structures. The study elaborates on the material composition and performance of these newly developed natural fibre pultruded profiles, showcasing their mechanical capabilities through rigorous experimentation and testing. The results demonstrate the material's mechanical capabilities showcasing a flexural strength of 260 MPa with a bending modulus of 21 GPa and a bending radius reaching 0.5 m. While this study focuses on the material formulation tested on laboratory-scale pultrusion, the findings will be later applied in an upscaled production at an industrial level, aiming to enhance overall sustainability in the construction industry.

Fabrication of microfibrillated cellulose from biomass by use of carbon nitride with high nitrogen/carbon ratio

Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) as an attractive green bio-based material has attracted widespread attention in recent years due to its non-toxicity, degradability, excellent performance, and high aspect ratio. In this study, the g-C3N5 with a high nitrogen/carbon ratio was prepared as a catalyst through the self-polymerization of a nitrogen-rich precursor. The triazole groups at the edges of g-C3N5 were proven to exhibit strong adsorption to biomass and strong alkalinity. In a low-acidic aqueous system with g-C3N5, MFC with diameters of 100–200 nm and lengths up to 100 μm was fabricated from various biomasses within 5 min under microwave radiation. The ultimate yield of the MFC produced from viscose reached 90 %. Young's modulus of the MFC reaches 3.7 GPa. This work provides a particular method with high efficiency to prepare MFC with excellent properties from biomass by chemical method.

One-pot complexation of phytic acid and polyethyleneimine on cellulosic microfibers towards insulative and flame-resistant foam

Flame resistance is required for the deployment of bio-based materials, especially those forming cellular structures that endow thermal insulation. This study proposes a one-pot strategy to prepare cellular lignocellulosic composites with excellent flame resistance. Lignocellulosic microfibers were used as the substrate onto which a flame-retardant complex consisting of P-containing phytic acid (PA) and N-containing polyethyleneimine (PEI) was formed. Following the prediction of ab initio molecular dynamics simulation, PA and PEI are integrated onto MF-CTMP following a single-step complexation assembly triggered by pH effects. The PA-PEI modified MF-CTMP can be readily transformed into a composite solid foam by dewatering a wet foam followed by oven drying. At the expense of a slightly reduced thermal insulation (thermal conductivity increase from 33.6 ± 0.6 to 40.0 ± 0.6 mW/(m·K)) the presence of PA-PEI complexes significantly improved the mechanical performance of the foam and uniquely endows it with flame resistance. Compared to unmodified MF-CTMP foams, the composite foams showed significant improvement in the Young's, specific compression, and flexural moduli (increased by 13.5, 5.5, and 7.3 folds, respectively), a high oxygen index (up to 40.8 %) and self-extinguishing effects. The results suggest the suitability of the introduced lignocellulosic foam as an alternative to traditional synthetic polymer-based counterparts as well as inorganic matter for insulation, particularly relevant to the building sector.

Bio-based materials in tribology: New salicylate ionic liquid+ZnO nanolubricant of PLA and PLA nanocomposite

ZnO nanoparticles have been dispersed (in 0.05; 0.5 and 1.0 wt% proportions) in the protic ionic liquid bis(2-hydroxyethyl) ammonium salicylate (DSa) to obtain new (DSa+ZnO) nanofluids. A non-Newtonian behavior was found for ZnO concentrations lower than 1 wt%. The Newtonian DSa+ 1 wt%ZnO nanofluid was selected as lubricant of polylactic acid (PLA) and as 5 wt% additive to obtain the new PLA+ (DSa+ZnO) nanocomposite. PLA+ZnO was also studied as a reference. The excellent friction-reducing and antiwear behavior of PLA+ (DSa+ZnO) is attributed to the porosity that promotes self-lubrication and to synergy due to interactions between the salicylate anion in DSa and the surface of ZnO nanoparticles. Electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), Raman spectroscopy, thermal analysis (DSC and TGA) and profilometry techniques were used.

Cosmetic Packaging: European Regulatory Aspects and Sustainability

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of various aspects related to cosmetic product packaging, highlighting both advancements and challenges in the field. Initially, it offers a general description of the main materials used in cosmetic containers, including plastic, glass, paper, and aluminum. This is followed by an analysis of the existing EU legislative frameworks that govern cosmetic packaging, encompassing chemical, food, and waste regulations. The paper also discusses recent EU regulatory proposals and guidelines from trade associations aimed at enhancing the sustainability of cosmetic packaging materials. Additionally, the role of recycled and bio-based packaging materials in promoting environmental sustainability is analyzed. Overall, this review aims to provide insights for experts in the field on how to balance safety, functionality, and environmental responsibility in cosmetic packaging.

Fully biobased thermal insulating aerogels with superior fire-retardant and mechanical properties

Biomass-based aerogels offer a promising potential as alternatives to plastic-based foams for thermal insulation applications. However, their inherent flammability has hindered their practical usage. In this work, we addressed this issue by employing a layer-by-layer assembly technique to deposit two oppositely charged biobased materials, namely phytic acid and chitosan, onto a fully biobased aerogel system. These aerogels were fabricated using cellulose filaments and chitosan and cross-linked with citric acid, resulting in a mechanically robust 3D structure. The synergistic effects of phytic acid and chitosan in the layer-by-layer deposited aerogels significantly enhanced their fire resistance and mechanical strength. The developed aerogel with six bilayer depositions (LBL6), showed an outstanding peak heat release rate (pHRR) of 6.0 kW.m−2, and total heat release (THR) of 0.4 MJ.m−2, substantially lower than the previously developed cellulose-based aerogels and foams. LBL6 also demonstrated immediate self-extinguishing behaviour, boasting an impressive limiting oxygen index (LOI) value of 63 %, which is the highest reported for a biobased aerogel. Furthermore, the developed aerogels exhibited a superior Young’s modulus of up to 4.5 MPa, surpassing previously developed flame-retardant aerogels. Additionally, they excelled in thermal insulation properties, with a thermal conductivity of less than 38.2 mW·m−1·K−1, placing them in the same range as, or even lower than, commercially available thermal insulators. Given the simplicity of the aerogel development process and the well-known advantages of a completely biobased system, our developed aerogels present a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to current commercial thermal insulators that are derived from petroleum-based materials.

Experiments and kinetic modeling of the sorbitol dehydration to isosorbide catalyzed by sulfuric acid under conditions of non-constant volume

Isosorbide is a novel bio-based material, derived as a secondary dehydration product of sorbitol. This work focuses on the kinetics of sulfuric acid-catalyzed dehydration of sorbitol under conditions of non-constant volume. Herein, the effects of stirring rate, catalyst dosage, reaction temperature, and reaction time on the dehydration reaction of sorbitol were investigated. The yield of isosorbide up to 77.13% was obtained after 1.5 hours of reaction time under conditions of 2 kPa, 1.0% (mass) catalyst dosage, and 413.15 K. Based on the sorbitol dehydration reaction mechanism and a simplified reaction network, a kinetic model was developed in this work. A good agreement was accomplished between kinetic modeling and experiments between 393.15 and 423.15 K. The fitting results indicate that side reactions with higher activation energy are more affected by reaction temperatures, and the main side reaction that influences the selectivity of isosorbide is the oligomerization reaction among the primary dehydration products of sorbitol. The model fitting of the catalyst amounts effect shows that the effective concentration of sulfuric acid would be reduced with the increase of dosage due to the molecular agglomeration effect. Hopefully, the kinetic experiments and modeling results obtained in this work will be helpful to the design and optimization of the industrial sorbitol dehydration process.