Ohio Lab Commercialized Soy-Based Asphalt Agent
Airable Research Lab and Warsaw Chemical introduced a soybean oil-based solution to improve paving performance.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Organic Food
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In September 2026, the Ohio Soybean Council division Airable Research Lab and Warsaw Chemical launched BIO-SLIDE 30. This new asphalt release agent uses soybean oil to replace traditional petroleum-based components in road construction.
Why it matters
The development of this product serves to expand industrial applications for U.S. soybeans. By substituting crop-based materials for petroleum, the collaboration aims to foster long-term demand for soybean farmers.
The new BIO-SLIDE 30 product consists of a 30 percent biobased solution. It utilizes soybean oil to reduce pavement buildup compared to petroleum-derived alternatives.
The players
Airable Research Lab
This facility operates as a division of the Ohio Soybean Council to develop industrial uses for agricultural products.
Warsaw Chemical
This company partnered with regional researchers to manufacture and distribute chemical solutions.
The details
Developed by the Ohio-based Airable Research Lab, the agent prevents asphalt from sticking to equipment during the paving process. Warsaw Chemical provides the commercialization infrastructure to bring the soy-enhanced formula to market.
Timeline
September 2026: The 2026 Farm Science Review highlighted the product release.
Roadmap
This innovation mirrors the transition toward sustainable industrial inputs within the chemical manufacturing sector. It represents a broader effort to leverage agricultural commodities to displace fossil fuel-derived materials in heavy infrastructure.
Farmers in areas like Auglaize County may see increased demand for their soybean harvests due to this new industrial outlet. Residents can expect to see more bio-based materials integrated into local road maintenance and infrastructure projects over time.
The takeaway
Using agricultural byproducts like soy oil can effectively reduce the reliance on petroleum in road construction materials. This shift highlights a practical path for farmers to engage with the industrial manufacturing supply chain.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's agricultural innovation on our Organic Food page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Brownfield Ag News.
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