Cover Image, Volume 140, Issue 43

The cover image by James Kim presents the synthesis of highly filled thermoplastic polyurethane with 80% engineered polysaccharide α-1,3-glucan. The new enzymatic polymerization technique allows for controlled synthesis of the poly-α-1,3-glucan from sucrose, which is extracted from sugarcane or beetroot. Utilizing these biodegradable α-1,3-glucan as reinforcing fillers provides new options for producing sustainable thermoplastic composite materials with high renewable content and unique properties. DOI: 10.1002/app.54051