What´s cooking MFC? Greetings from Tappi Nanotechnology Conference

Mid-June the MFC community gathered in Vancouver for the 2023 TAPPI Nanotechnology Conference. Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) and highly refined fiber have continued to gain interest within the paper and other industries. My perception is that this year the main focus of the conference was on the use of MFC in packaging products.

MFC has emerged as a transformative material in the packaging applications, offering a range of benefits including improved oxygen and grease barrier properties, enhanced strength and sustainability of the raw material. As brands and consumers increasingly prioritize sustainable and high-performing packaging, MFC provides a compelling solution that meets these evolving demands, and this was recognized in the network too.

Tuesday´s panel discussion on international nanomaterial regulations and ongoing characterization challenges provided discussion on updated nomenclature, regulations and trends in Europe, North America and Asia. It has been a surprise to some of the stakeholders that the processes and ways of working are not clear in all areas and even with good internal processes, there is no quick lane into the market. As a large association of industry professionals, Tappi is considered as one important spokesperson for the global standardization. Panelists recognized challenges in building discussion with different networks and agreed on strengthening the cooperation between academic world and the industry representatives.  

My perception is that this year the main focus of the conference was on the use of MFC in packaging products, offering a range of benefits including improved oxygen and grease barrier properties, enhanced strength and sustainability of the raw material.

On Wednesday, the stage was dedicated for end users of cellulose nanomaterials.  Panelists shared success stories and challenges in using cellulose based materials in their products. There was a great mix of panelists from start up company to global industry leaders highlighting the differences in MFC markets. Start ups can work as accelerators in technology and business development and joint vendors were seen beneficial with different stakeholders.

Valmet taking an active role in research and development

We at Valmet continue being an active member of the MFC network. As the leading refiner technology provider for continuous production, we take great pride in research and development. Our Valmet Fiber Technology Center provides piloting solutions for MFC development including pulping, high- and low consistency refining, screening and mixing, as well as versatile laboratory services. Our pioneering work in industry standards is reflected also in the algorithms used by the Valmet Fiber Image Analyzer for advanced offline fiber analysis.

MFC community is a great place to learn and share ideas between everyone from industry peers to university students. The annual Conference provides a unique forum that delivers technical value, networking opportunities and industry knowledge for participants working in either research, development, or deployment of renewable nanomaterials. I wish the discussion continues actively during the year so we can all develop the industry forward.

MFC community is a great place to learn and share ideas between everyone from industry peers to university students. From left: Jo Anne Shatkin / Vireo Advisors, Soledad Peresin / Auburn University, Heli Kangas / Valmet and Nicole Stark / USDA Forest Products Laboratory